Rear Rim - worth saving ?

[Eric85]

I'm wondering if this rear rim on my super c is is worth saving.
I had planned on getting the tire off and getting the rim sandblasted so I could paint it but when I started to remove tire I noticed a hole right next to the valve stem which goes all the way through.

I know just the sandblasting alone will probably cost $100-150 plus whatever it cost to weld up the hole. So maybe its time to find a new one, just wanted your options / thoughts.

[Eugene]

I would dismount the tire and tube. Check for any other rust through holdes.

The valve stem hole can be relocated and the old hole welded up.

If there were no other imperfections, I would repair the rim. But, I have the welders and grinders to patch the hole and clean up the rim. Also I own working tractors and the outside of the patch doesn't have to be perfect.

[staninlowerAL]

JMHO, I would wire wheel the rim to clean it up, treat it with a rust inhibitor like OSPHO, cut a sheet metal patch to overlap and cover the rust through area(s) and set it in a bed of JB Weld to hold it in place. Top it with about 2 or 3 layers of Fiberglass cloth and resin and you should be good. I've fixed holes in FCub rims as big as a golf ball with no problems. After all, you're not going to be using it in a high pressure or high speed application. You'll save some $$$$.

[Tireguy71]

I would have to agree with Stan. That rim isn't that bad at all. But you definately want to get rid of as much of the existing rust as possible. Patch right over the hole with a piece of sheet metal, and drill a new hole through the patch (5/8"). Chamfer the edges so they won't cut into the tube stem.

If you need the liquid ballast for weight, consider something other than chloride. There is a product available called BIO BALLAST that is non corrosive, non toxic, biodegradable and is eco friendly corn based. There is another product made from sugar beet juice, but I personally try to avoid this stuff. It's a mess, smells horrible, and if you ever do need to remove it, it' foams up under a vacuum and is quite a lot more work.