Hello Brad, All of your reasoning and approach sounds correct to me. I don't think a bit of brass in the lead would cause and future corrosion problems. Are you doing all this work yourself? You are a brave man. Make sure you wear a good fitting respirator while working with the fiberglass and epoxy. I have never had any sticking swing keel issues with my M23, however, I did develop a slow leak which I believe originated at the keel hinge pin. I had my boatyard do the job which required removing the 360 lb keel. Much too big of a project for me. Good luck (and prayers), keep us all posted as to your progress. Mr. Bones Mpls ____________________________________________________________ Heavy rains mean flooding http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/563caf7bcc7ae2f7b48d0st03vuc