Conventional Fixtures - Source 4 Burn base question

[shiben]

I have a source 4 that was dropped from about 20' recently that just came into the lockup for repair. The first problem was the reflector, which was fixed. I was replacing the burn base, when I noticed that the screw hole in the body of the instrument was broken off, keeping me from being able to secure the burn base (It had fallen out when I pulled the broken reflector out, so I didnt notice it right away). I dont have a camera on me, but if anyone wants to see the problem, I can get a photo on friday when I am back in. Anyhow, is there a way to fix this issue? The TD thinks we might be able to weld it back together, but I am not certain that a weld will be easy to make or even secure. However, my experience in welding is about nill, so I was wondering if anyone here has had experience with this same issue, and can I weld the screw hole back in, or will I need to scrap the body?

[headcrab]

Source Fours are cast aluminum, and I've heard that aluminum can't be easily welded.
I assume this is the screw hole that holds the lamp assembly to the rest of the Source Four?

[Les]

Yeah the cast aluminum would have to be taken to a machine shop to be welded (requires a special setup with gas), and that would be expensive and not even a proper fix. It would be better just to drill out the old screw and tap in another.

[gafftaper]

If that's beyond your shop's skill or it looks like it won't work. I bet ETC would be glad to sell you only the part of the fixture that you need to replace it. It would in all likelihood be easier and cheaper than welding aluminum.

[shiben]

Ok thanks guys. I will scrap the body, as drilling and tapping is not an option (the part that would be tapped is broken off), pull the reflector (if i can get it out without breaking it), and order a new body. Im sure its sold, it would be odd if it wasnt, ETC is a good company for stuff like that, in my experience.

[gafftaper]

I would just call them directly rather than try to go through your local dealer. They will hook you up.

[derekleffew]

shiben, this recently came up on another forum, and I believe JB Weld was proposed as a solution. But replacing the entire rear casting would be a much better, although pricey, option.

[dramatech]

Every part for a Source Four is available individually. Just go to an assembly guide and get the part number. PRG, Production Advantage, and any ETC dealer can get the part for you using that number. If you don't have an assembly guide, you can download one from the ETC site: Standard SourceFour Assembly Guide.pdf.