I don't know if it's cast. I know the lugs are cast, but the strainer? I don't know.

If you can post a pic and also the broken piece that would help. I know some strainers (older I'd guess?) were stamped steel. If it's cast aluminum it can be welded. Pot metal no it'll be a puddle on the table.

You can tell by the break, if it`s cast the break will look like the surface of a sponge, if it`s forged it`ll look smooth and shiny.

FFR is right, the weld temp. will puddle the metal and not weld.

Many ways to fix things but a pic is needed!

Thanks to everyone above who has given advice. I'm glad I consulted the forum before trying to weld this myself. I'll post some pics very soon. I noticed a fridge magnet sticks to the strainer. The other parts on the drum ie. hoops, lugs appear to be nickle over brass. It's one of those old mahogany shell WFL snare drums. Nice drum when tuned well. It sounds best at a lower tuning. I'd like to fix it up. Would it be sacrilege to sand the shell while I'm at it? I was think it might look nice with a duco finish. As it is it's mahogany and full of scratches and scuff marks.

photos of broken WFL P-85

PM me your complete mailing info. I have an identical base for you to replace the broken one. The one I have is from the early 50's and it sticks a little bit when you use the throw arm - but it works. However, with a small bit of filing in the slot, it should work smoothly again.

Yours if you want it, mate. I'll be happy to gift you the part so you can get your drum up and running again.

John

Wow man, that's darn decent of you. I'll PM you. I could send you a Super Classic P-87 if you have any need for it?

No need to send me anything brother... glad to help out. If shipping to the Emerald Isle is too dear I may hit you up for shipping costs, but if the rates for small package are reasonable, I'll take care of it. I'll pm you when I ship. I also have to get a cymbal out to another member so I have to hit the post office soon. I'll let you know when it's on the way.

Pay it forward... that will be thanks enough.

John

That's real kind of you man. I'm going to reimburse you. I'll have to insist. I'm not sure how much the postage will be to wee leprechaun land, but whatever it is I got it covered and then some. It's the least I can do.