It's hard finding lead keel casting information. If you don't mind what did you
use to melt the lead? Used iron bathtubs seem to be unavailable where I live
and I was thinking of having a 2'by 2' steel box made out of 3/16 or 1/4 plate.
I was also wondering if renting a couple of propane burners that use the common
18 pound tanks would be enough. Any suggestions about this plan?

I am restoring a 43 year old Dutch built 26' sloop. It has a 1200 pound iron
keel and 650 pounds of inside lead ballast. It is a keel centerboard design and
the keel is in rough shape and keeping it from rusting in salt water I think
would be an unending chore (the centerboard slot is the source of most
problems).

If I replace the iron with a lead keel of identical dimensions I could eliminate
the inside ballast and not have to deal with rusting. The inside ballast was
added by the designer ( I suppose after complaints about tenderness) and is
penciled in on the factory plans.

JJ



On Sun, 13 Jun 2004 13:55:02 -0400, "Kevin Fitz-Gerald"
wrote:

"mike worrall" wrote in message
om...
I've discovered a few sites on the 'Net selling 25lb bags for $15, but
am hoping that the assembled brain-trust can suggest a less expensive
option.

Mike, try going to a trap range. If you explain what you want it for, they
may let you collect all you want for free. There is a local sportsman's
club that has a range and you can go out and scoop up handfuls (or shovel
fulls) of mostly #8 shot. You will get some dirt and debris mixed in, but
that can be sifted out fairly easily if it bothers you. Mixed with a little
epoxy, it makes a great slurry that will flow just about anywhere. Good
luck.

Regards,
Kevin Fitz-Gerald
"Have ShopBot, Will Create!"


James Johnson
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