welding cast

[craigco]

The window latch in my trackhoe is made out of cast. The shop mechanics replaced the glass and managed to break the latch. No the window is a pain to open have to use a screw driver to wiggle the latch to open it. Can't replace just the latch as it was asssembled into the frame, you have to replace the entire frame. what are the chances of welding a peice on to the latch. I can,t move the trackhoe to a stick welder but I have a little mig that my generator will power. Think it will work or just a waste of time. I would like to be able to shut it to keep the weather out.
 

[D7fever]

Might have better luck with JBweld
 

[Chris(WA)]

Cast what? Most of the cast latches today are aluminum or phenolic resin not iron or steel. Neither of which are readily weldable. The JB weld idea might work. Post a picture of the two pieces. Someone will have an idea.
 

[Mel in SW Iowa]

Is it thick enough to drill a hole or two into and tap for a 1/4" bolt to repair the fracture?
 

[RodinNS]

If it's cast iron you're probably better off trying to braze it given your circumstances. If it'ss cast steel it should weld OK with the mig. I'd expect it to be steel if it's a cab part... but you never know. Determine what it is first...

Rod
 

[craigco]

It is broke even with the frame. When you pull it down it rotates about 1/2 inch out. So I can,t bolt it. It is on a cat 330b I will try to weld it Monday, If that doesnt work I will JB weld. Thanks
 

[Jo Bird]

The one thing no one has mentioned is, glass, is NOT very tolerant of heat or sparks from welding, has something to do with, rapid expansion. LOL. Shield the glass as best you can or you may double the cost of your repair buying another window.
 

[GeneMO]

I would bet it isn't cast iron. Maybe a cast, mallable steel. If it's a "pot metal" type stuff, forget it. Maybe cast aluminum.

Gene