I decided to start a new thread documenting my rust issue with my wet pin tumbler. I emailed the seller sending some photos and I got this response, which is about what I expected:
«We have guys paint inside to help stop the rust. You can call the manufacturer and ask them what works best. 1800-225-1017 I have never heard anyone try and get the rust off the rubber.
Cory Dickerson
Stainless Tumbling Media»
IOW it's not his problem. Well, yeah it's mine.
Here's the way it looked when I took the rubber insert out:
Using vinegar and an SOS pad I cleaned the rubber insert:
I mixed up some JB Weld epoxy:
I covered the areas where the little holes were:
I didn't say it was pretty.
I used BB's and tumbled dry for a few hours. A lot of rust was removed:
The first coat of rust inhibiter, like naval jelly:
The second coat:
And it dried black as expected:
Tomorrow it gets a coat of this, and then a second coat Tuesday. Then a bead of silicone caulk. Hopefully it will be ok then. I suspect I should take the liner out after each use and make sure it is dry. Too bad it isn't welded and painted properly to start with.