Lead Wheel Weights Scrap – Pricing, Identification & Recycling Guide 2025

ISRI Code: Ropes (Lead Wheel Weights)
Typical Alloy: Pb 92–97%, Sb 1–6%, Sn 0–2%

What is Lead Wheel Weights Scrap?

Lead wheel weights are small counterweights affixed to vehicle rims to balance tires. They consist of a high-density lead alloy and represent a concentrated source of easily processed lead scrap. Despite the rise of steel and zinc alternatives in passenger vehicles, clip-on and stick-on lead weights remain common in commercial trucking, legacy fleets, and specialty vehicles.

Composition and Characteristics

• Alloy Makeup: Lead 92–97%, antimony 1–6%, tin up to 2% for hardness
• Forms:
• Clip-On: Lead block with attached steel clip
• Stick-On: Lead segments affixed to foam adhesive backing
• Contaminants: Steel clips, adhesives, road grime, oils, occasional zinc weights
• Density Advantage: High specific gravity ensures efficient smelting yields

ISRI Specifications and Codes

• ISRI Code: Ropes (Lead Wheel Weights)
• Material must be free of non-lead weights, excessive oil, moisture, and trash
• Steel clips acceptable; buyers may pay more for de-clipped lead
• Related Lead Grades:
• Racks (Soft Lead) – Pure, low-impurity lead solids
• Radio (Mixed Hard/Soft Lead) – Combined lead shot and solids
• Full Code Directory: https://www.scrapmonster.com/glossary

How to Identify Lead Wheel Weights

Visual Identification Guide

• Lead Clip-On: Dull gray, malleable, stamped weight markings, easy to dent
• Zinc Weight: Lighter silver, harder, “Zn” or “Zinc” stamp, resists denting
• Stick-On: Rectangular segments on foam tape; remove adhesive to upgrade value

Magnet Test Results

• Lead: Non-magnetic
• Steel Clip: Magnetic—use a strong magnet to remove clips in bulk
• Zinc Weights: Non-magnetic but harder—distinguish by hardness test

Current Market Pricing

Regional Price Variations

Factors Affecting Pricing

• Contamination: Zinc/steel clips, adhesives, oil reduce bids
• Preparation: De-clipped and de-taped lead commands premiums
• Volume: Large, consistent pallets/drums yield better rates
• LME Lead Price: Primary benchmark affecting scrap lead offers

Where to Find Lead Wheel Weights Scrap

• Tire Shops & Dealerships – Commercial and passenger tire balance services
• Fleet Maintenance Yards – Truck, bus, heavy equipment facilities
• Automotive Recyclers – End-of-life vehicles
• Municipal Garages – Public works fleets

Locate buyers and schedule pickups: https://www.scrapmonster.com/scrap-yards

Where can we sell Lead Wheel Weights?

Local scrap haulers may be willing to buy used wheel weights, but the risk lies in the fact that they may not be traceable at a later date. Hence, it is advised to sell your wheel weight scrap to recognized scrap yards. Such yards may accept mixed wheel weights consisting of steel, lead, zinc wheel weights and separate them into respective categories. Separating the scrap into various categories will maximize your profits.

The following are some of the scrap yards in the US that accept Lead Wheel Weights.

1. ABC Salvage & Scrap Metal, Little Rock, Arkansas
2. Cohen, Hamilton, Ohio
3. Gershow Recycling, Brooklyn, New York
4. Dem-Con Metal Recycling, Shakopee, Minnesota

You can use our ‘Scrap Yard Finder’ to search and find more scrap yards in your region.

Check out here to find Scrap Yards in the US.

A list of Scrap Yards in Canada is also provided.

Preparation for Maximum Value

1. Sort & Separate:
• Remove steel clips using magnet racks.
• Separate zinc weights by hardness/stamp.
2. Clean & De-Tape:
• Knock off dirt/grime; remove foam tape adhesive.
3. Batch by Grade:
• Clip-on lead in one container; stick-on in another.
4. Upgrade Option – De-Clipping Service:
• Consider in-house de-clipping for premium; confirm with buyer first.
5. Pack & Label:
• Use sealed drums or buckets labeled “Lead Wheel Weights – Clip-On” etc.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

• PPE: Gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves
• Hygiene: No eating/drinking in handling areas; wash hands thoroughly
• Dust Control: Use wet sweeping or vacuums with HEPA filters
• Storage: Keep dry, off the ground, in covered areas
• Battery & Fluid Contact: Refer to Battery Safety Guide: https://www.scrapmonster.com/glossary#battery-safety

Find Local Buyers

• Post Your Lot: https://www.scrapmonster.com/marketplace
• Compare Offers: Real-time bids for specific lot size and prep level
• Verified Buyers: Filter by buyer rating and service level

Market Outlook and Trends

• Regulatory Shift: Phasing out of lead weights in new vehicles; residual supply from legacy and commercial fleets
• Supply Dynamics: Steady volumes in trucking/bus sectors; decreasing supply in passenger car segment
• Price Support: Secondary lead demand for batteries and construction stabilizes pricing
• Technology Upgrade: Automated clip removal systems emerging in large scrap operations

Optimize your returns on lead wheel weights by following this foolproof guide and leveraging ScrapMonster’s full suite of tools—live pricing, buyer comparison, prep checklists, and safety resources.