Temp fix for chipped tank?

When I spilled my bike around a month ago, it jammed the starter button into my tank, putting a nickel-size dent in it. The paint chipped off exposing bare metal.

I don't want to lose any riding time, so I'm going to wait a few months before getting it fixed properly. The problem is that the metal is already beginning to oxidize. What should I do as a temporary fix? If I sand it down and rattle can it, will it be enough to preserve the tank for a few months? What's the best way to prepare the damaged area? Should I try the dry-ice trick to try to pull the dent a little beforehand?

I know that this is probably a no-brainer, but I'm afraid that if I don't do a proper job, I'll end up having to buy a new tank down the line, which I'd obviously like to avoid.

I've never done any body work, so even the smallest tips would be appreciated.

del

The best and most gas proof rattle can I've found is Rustoleum appliance epoxy, $4.00 at the hardware store, as stated in the above post, make sure to sand and spray some rust converting primer on it first. If rust gets under a fresh coat of paint, your done for. Also, walmart sells tack cloths in the auto section for around $1. They work awesome to remove all of the sanding dust. The only catch with the paint is that only comes in black or white.

Just my.02

Good luck and happy riding

go riding around the local car lots, if you see a van with a tent awning up in the back part of the lot and a guy painting a bumper or whatever, pull in and see if he is painting. he will patch it right quickly for you and almost match your paint with his overstock paints.

Well, atleast i would if you pulled in on the lots i worked with my brother.
With any more luck the Dent Wizard would be on the lot pushing dents and dings back out too.

Bring a few bucks riding with you and go on your adventure now.

Just put a little nail polish on the spot to stop the rust and fix it when you have the time.
Mark

Nail polish is an excellent idea.

Mind the gas sloshing, it might make the polish run and re-expose the metal to the elements.... And make a tacky mess.

Peace