Sandblasting old parts......Lead Paint?

[Leaping Deer]

I have a harbor freight sandblasting cabinet that I have been using to clean up some old parts. The seals aren't that great and usually there is a little dust around the cabinet. I want to media blast the heater box, wheels, glove box door and other misc painted items. They are from a 2/77 FJ45 but my concern is would this be lead paint?

 

[PAToyota]

There can still be lead in automotive paints - the lead being removed from paints ruling was on house paints. Your kids aren't as likely to be teething on your Land Cruiser as on your windowsill.

My bigger concern would be breathing in silica dust from the sand. I have a dust collection system on my sandblast cabinet that vents outside. Really, the mix of crap created in sandblasting is all a concern - you don't want to be breathing it in.

 

[toomanytoyzz]

My bigger concern would be breathing in silica dust from the sand. I have a dust collection system on my sandblast cabinet that vents outside. Really, the mix of crap created in sandblasting is all a concern - you don't want to be breathing it in.

X2 on that.

 

[Leaping Deer]

I do plan to get a dust collection system. I haven't been using sand for fear of silica. I've been using glass beads (yeah in know breathing glass ain't much better) and wearing a respirator while blasting to be a little safer. I just didn't know how concerned I should be.

 

[PAToyota]

Definitely cause for concern. I just wouldn't limit it to lead. Depends on how much you're doing too. The respirator is a good call.

 

[AgentOrange]

I work with a commercial sand blaster sometimes. His advice: Use a respirator and gloves and see what you can do about beefing up your seals. Even foam with adhesive would be better than nothing. Keep a fan with fresh air. You should be alright.