Snap On original paint and lead?

[kellykungfu]

Hi Everyone,

Great site and my first post. I tried searching this site and others but did not find anything about Snap On paint containing lead. Is there a specific year where lead was used? I'm in the middle of a 1948 tool box restore and was curious. Thanks I'm advance.

[macother]

This is my opinion only, but it probably doesn't warrant much concern. From what I've seen, most of the coatings we call paint have had lead, chromium, zinc or other additives in them. Lead based refers to a level of concentration, and is not likely significant in laquers and enamels of dark bases, like Snap~On red. Lead was phased out by American manufacturers during the 60's and early 70's, later than that from other sources. What's confounding to me about that is the varietal chromium that was used in it's place is much more dangerous and at much lower concentrations.

Inhalation is the vector, so wet sand would be best.