fixing my aluminum HLT with a soldering gun

[goat_power]

So, my 32 qt turkey fryer has a pin-sized hole in the bottom of it that causes it to leak. Other than that, it is in decent shape. I was wondering if it would be a terrible idea to plug the hole with a glob of solder. I realize that a lot of solder has lead, but I've seen lead-free soldering wire.

I know that a new pot would run me $30 or so, but I'd sure like to salvage this one

 

[P-J]

You can do that. It will require a special flux designed for soldering aluminum.
Search for Harris Stay-Clean Aluminum Soldering Flux or something similar.

Try this: Markal Aluminum Flux Paste & Solder Kits

 

[rodneypierce]

you will have to use a torch to get it hot enough to actually accept solder. Then, whats the melting point? With the burner blazing on it, im not so sure it would hold.

 

[P-J]

The Harris Aluminum Solder & Flux Kit has a temp range of Solid - 391ºF Liquid - 482ºF. That is low enough to use with a soldering iron.

Another point - There will be no possibility of the solder melting when the kettle is in use as long as there is water in it.

 

[rodneypierce]

PJ, what is the temperature of the surrounding aluminum when trying to heat it with a soldering iron?? Wont get hot enough to actually accept solder. It might melt the solder and glob on the surface, but I dont think you will get that gigantic kettle warm enough with an iron.... Its a giant heat sink.......

 

[goat_power]

hey, thanks guys. Even if I do need to buy a torch, I will probably be spending less money than if I bought a new pot.

 

[wilserbrewer]

Are there perhaps other pinholes or weak areas on this pot? I would start looking for something on the cheap rather than spending money trying to fix it.