Lead seams

[mutantcapri1979]

I'm working on removing my roof skin, I was thinking of using a paint stripper over the lead seams. Is this safe?

[wraithracing]

You can strip the paint with the paint stripper, but that will not remove the lead if that is what you need.

The best way to remove the lead is to use a propane torch. Heat the lead up just enough that it starts melting and rolling off the sheet metal. Use a screwdriver, spatula, etc. to knock the lead pebbles down. Continue until all the lead is melted away from the seam and then knock it all off the car. Once cooled, you can pick up and dispose of properly. Much better option than grinding or sanding and getting the lead airborne. Good Luck!

[Zap's 85 GT]

I use a cheap wire brush from Harbor Freight to brush away the lead as its melting. Best to lay something on the ground for the lead to fall onto or it can get stuck to the cement and be a pain to clean up. Don't have any exposed skin when doing this. Work boots, thick jeans and lots of PPE required.

[mutantcapri1979]

Thanks to both of you for your reply. I was going to melt the lead into cheap cooking pan and take it to the dump. Just wanted to make sure the paint stripper wouldn't make the lead worse.

[darkd0r]

If you have any appreciable quantity of lead, you might ask around at a shooting club. Some reloaders cast their own bullets. Muzzle loaders want pure lead, cartridge types like lead wheel weights, which are a harder alloy.