TotalBoat TotalFair can be used fair a lead keel, but in order for this application to be successful, timing and quality of the surface preparation are extremely important, as well as the health and safety of the person doing the task. Safety when dealing with a lead keel is the first priority. Always use the appropriate personal protective equipment, tools, and dust extraction equipment for the task.
Lead begins oxidizing very quickly as soon as it is exposed to the ambient air; epoxy products can form an excellent mechanical bond to clean, bright, shiny lead, but virtually nothing will stick to dull, oxidized lead (except for barnacles, possibly). This can make surface preparation and fairing a little tricky. There are two routes that can be taken to fair with epoxy.
Grind back the area that is being worked on and faired. Have TotalBoat TotalProtect Epoxy Barrier Coat Primer mixed and ready to apply. Grind back a few inches at a time, as needed, wipe the surface with acetone, and as soon as the acetone has evaporated completely, apply TotalProtect to the bare, shiny lead. Apply another 1-2 coats, as directed. This will encapsulate the lead, preventing it from further oxidation. Allow the TotalProtect to cure. Wash it with a mild soap and warm water, then sand with 80-grit sandpaper, without sanding through the TotalProtect. Apply TotalFair, then sand smooth, as needed. This method will help prevent oxidation from occurring, while the TotalFair can still form an adequately strong bond with the TotalProtect.
Mix up enough TotalFair to use within 10-15 minutes. Grind back the area that is being worked on and faired. As soon as the area is completely shiny and bare lead, wipe the lead clean with acetone. As soon as the acetone on the lead has evaporated, apply TotalFair, ensuring that the TotalFair covers the entire exposed lead surface. Do not leave any bare lead to oxidize. Allow the TotalFair to cure completely. Wash the cured TotalFair with warm water and a mild soap. Dry the surface completely. Have TotalBoat TotalProtect mixed and ready to apply. Sand the TotalFair until it is fair and smooth. Bare lead may now be showing. Quickly wipe the surface clean with acetone. As soon as the acetone has evaporated, apply TotalProtect, as directed. If any final fairing needs to be performed, follow the directions in Step 1, above.