Remove original lead or leave it?

[Old Time]

Hi, I have a 48 Studebaker that I'm working on.It has the original lead filler intact at different areas of the body I'm guessing along the seams.Does anyone know if its common practice to keep the original lead or get rid of it.As of right now there's nothing wrong with the lead i.e. no cracking it's just 60 years old.Any insight on the matter would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,Matt

[Mooch]

Lets see it's been there 60 years and is still good . In that case if it was my car I would leave it . There isnt too much your going to do that will be good in 60 years. Some guys will tell you to remove it so it will be your call.

But I would just leave it alone. Mooch

[Ranchero_65]

I agree with Moocho :) I'd leave it . I have several places on my 65 Ranchero that are lead filled and it's staying that way.

[teg51]

I have a question regarding previously leaded seams. What is the best filler to use if you have to replace the lead?

Thanks
Terry

[Len]

A good quality body filler like Rage would work well.


http://autobodystore.net/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/E106.jpg (http://autobodystore.net/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=E106&Category_Code=FM)

Rage Link

[Phil V]

I agree with Mooch and the other guys. When it comes to lead - " if it ain't broke, don't fix it ".

[studebaker]

One thing to remember about Studes, some of them -- the 53 C&K and later body style had lead in the rear filler sections on the upper portion of the deck lid area. I have seen the lead removed here and filler put back in and over time it cracks. This is a high stress area and as the body flexes it puts stress this area.

[nick61]

ignore this post,ive asked Question in general discussion area.