Cowl repair start

Well.....minimim body work skills....decent welding skills.....and some much less rusty parts on the way. Here's where it starts from.....Yes....my tetnus is up to date.....lol :)
Advice needed as to how to deal with the lead in the cowl patch area.....respirator and a propane torch? I know I dont want to cut through it with the cut-off wheel.....Thanks.