cracks in Lead Keel

[SV_Tethys]

I was wondering if anyone had tried welding cracks in there lead keel.
I will be attempting this on mine and just seeing if anyone had advise on going about this. I have a game plan and studied lead welding, just never heard of boaters doing this.. I'm in process of replacing keel bolts this is next. Hope to get some input. This is my first post be nice please..

[Cheechako]

I wouldn't worry about it, fill with epoxy. Now sure why lead would crack, maybe cooled to fast on casting...?

[model 10]

Lead welding is done on thin sheet, not a 5,000 pound chunk of lead. You might get the surface edges of a crack to melt but it wouldn't mean much, like he said, epoxy.

[SV_Tethys]

They're pretty severe at least one is, 3 inches from bottom, horizontal full length of keel, trailing edge goes clear through. Concerned I'll loose 3 inches

[model 10]

Lag screws. It's tough to drill lead for the pilot holes. You will need to sharpen the bit for drilling lead. It's very sticky.

[SV_Tethys]

Not sure if possible from bottom up, not where I'm located with no boat hoist around.
I've drilled 8 holes for keel bolts already, including side pockets so I know about drilling lead.. LOL
Pick any of my vids on youtube, heres a link. https://youtu.be/8njLdZNKsag?t=38s

I'm in a RV storage park. will keep your advice at hand..

[notiesbob]

If it's 3" from bottom of keel, full length and width you likely have an add on lead shoe to increase ballast. The weight over time has challenged the fastening method. Epoxy fill material and fairing is the boatyard accepted method. You could consider improving the mechanical fastening method with vertical stainless steel straps recessed into keel sides then faired.

[CSY Man]

Pictures?
Anybody seeking technical advice should take at least 5 seconds to snap a picture then upload to the thread.

[SailsTeam]

You don't weld lead. It melts at such a low temperature that you can melt it with a propane or MAPP torch. Pull the keel and heat it up. Done.