Mill cut Flat File

Mill cut flat file

Traditional lead has been used by early auto manufacturers to cover body joins and seams. At the time this was the only material available for the job. It has been regarded as the best method to do so, and in most cases has lasted the test of time. Later in the 1950's lead was heavily used by the pioneers of car customisation and hence the term "lead sled" was then derived. When it comes time to restore a vehicle, lead has its place for an authentic project.

Lead is a filling material for areas on a vehicle that require it. Most commonly used on sections that cannot be metal repaired completely. It is perfect on pillars, panel edges, exterior corners and shut lines. Its strength is also ideal for door and panel edges that are vulnerable for chipping. Lead is perfect to cover over seams and overlapped metal; it will not show up witness lines or shrink in these areas. 

Once lead solder has been applied and smoothed, then it’s ready to be shaped. These files have 8 teeth per inch which is ideal for soft metals like lead. This file is non-flexing and best suited to our solid maple file holder for maximum control and precise results. Remember when filing, it’s always best to only contact the surface while pushing forward with the cutting action of the file and lift off the surface for the return pass. This will ensure your file will stay sharp for as long as possible.

Once the lead has been filed its ready to prepare for paint. A light sand with 80 and 120 grit is ideal and provides a good mechanical bond for the next coating.

Made from high grade steel, these files have 8 teeth per inch and are 14" (355mm) long.