PLEASE HELP...I'M OUT OF MY DEPTH!!!

[corduroyculture]

Hi folks,

I'm Cord, and this is my work in progress Reimo 1.9DG. I've had loads of invaluable help and advice from the forum already, but what I'm really after now is some more practical help....desperately!!
As you can see, I sanded most of the van down in preparation for painting last year, but in doing so unearthed a lot of rust, especially around the windows and windscreen. This is the second 'Summer' that it's looked like this, and the smaller pics were taken today.
I'm out of my depth with this, as I have neither the premises or the know-how to get these areas welded. What I'm looking for really is someone in the Melton Mowbray, Oakham or Grantham area, who's not too expensive, to help me get this into a paintable condition (I was thinking Rustoleum as I've seen such good results on the thread).

I've spent so much money just getting her to run properly. This is my daily runner, and I'm getting more than a little fed up with the constant jibes from the guys at work!

If you think you might be able to help, or know someone who can, then please get in touch.

Thanks a lot,

Cord.

[nevill3]

If it were me I would take photos of all the rusty bits to remind me of where they are, and then either do a quick patch with filler or vactan the rust, then rustoleum the van. One of the main advantages of Rustoleum is that it is colour fast so you can go back and redo a panel or section later once you have had the bits welded. At least the van would look good until you can get the welding done, and maybe have all the different bits welded as and when you can spare the time or the cash.

[boatbuilder]

As you've discovered, its a can of worms situation when you start working on these vans.
Agree with nevill... I would just roller her the way she is to make her look half respectable. Then go back and do the repairs one at a time. Don't try to tackle the whole van at once...it can be overwhelming.

[supergalaxy]

I Like that van, It's just like mine except mine does'nt have the skirts around it. I Totally agree with the two previous replies. Ignor your (so called) workmates, they're only jealous. It will look great when it's painted. Think like Bradley Wiggins, Don't give up. You're in it for the long haul.

[evilnoodle]

Have your workmates not heard of the ratlook?

Only kidding. Hope you get it sorted the way you want it and within your budget

[weldore]

have you heard of the campershack at grantham ? they do these types of repairs
and tell the guys at work to knob off

E D I T....im sure ive seen these pics before ..maybe about a year or more ago

[LeeME3]

Another vote for CamperShack - I picked my van up from an LPG conversion there a few days ago and they have loads of T25s in that they are doing exactly this sort of thing to. Very professional and pleasant folk they are too.

If funds are an issue might be best to ask them what the priority areas are -personally I'd start with anywhere that may be causing water to ingress other areas and cause further damage (front windscreen being an example as leaks there tend to cause the front footwells to get damp).

[CovKid]

Windscreen HAS to come out for starters. The rust there is nearly always a sign that its far worse beneath the rubbers. Just tackle each bit at a time as you can afford it then roller it! You can always put a coat of primer on exposed areas in the meantime.

[corduroyculture]

Thanks for the advice people. I think I'll fill it best I can, and paint it as is. Think I've come to the realisation that she's never going to look pristine...not without thousands of pounds being spent!!

[Charliesbunnies]

Have you spoken to Rutland Campers in Oakham? I havent used them yet (taking our new purchase there on sat for the first time) but heard good things. They have a website and on Facebook