Metal patch/hole fill, repair materials and techniques

[Beachvbguy]

My newbie build progresses!

So, I'm finally at a place where I'm preparing the exterior for it's first of many coats of paint. I'm cleaning all the sticky tape, and priming any rust spots, and doing my first light sanding. I have several spots, like the one in the attached photo, where things have either been removed, or, in some cases, where I've made holes in the process of mounting things, which I then moved. My question is, what process/materials should I use to prepare these areas for painting? For a 2 - 3 inch hole, I assume some bonding material is inadequate. Should I get some sheet metal and cut a patch, like pair of jeans? If so, how should I attach it?

As always, all suggestions appreciated.

 

[Danjo-SKO]

I just used the spot where the stop sign was to add a filler hole for the water tank.

You could patch it from the inside using a piece of like-material, if you have a steel bus use steel. Use some body panel sealant to attach it. Then from the outside fill the hole with a metal plug the same thickness as the buses skin and fill the remaining space around the plug with body filler.

 

[Danjo-SKO]

I used spot putty for the small holes. If you go this route, get the two part type. It’s best to go to an auto body supply rather than an auto parts store or hardware store.

 

[musigenesis]

I used Bondo to cover these particular holes on my bus. The hole in the middle is much too large for just Bondo, of course, but you can cover it with a piece of this mesh and then Bondo away: https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bondo-self-adhesive-patch-932/7101309-p

 

[EastCoastCB]

I cut some 18 ga into a square and rivet that down over all the holes. With a couple beads of seam sealer under the patch panel so it never leaks again.

 

[TheArgobus]

I used fiberglass cloth and two part epoxy for these areas, it's a lot easier than you'd think (https://theargobus.blogspot.com/2019/08/how-to-patch-holes-in-skoolie-floor.html)