The lead will be in a molten status in a semi-cone shape steel container and then will be left a lone to harden then lift by a craneIt is suggested that a hook to be used, which I think will not be able to handel the 8-ton wieght without pulling-out due to the softness nature of the leadWhat would be a better way to handel this lead block
If you put a 12 flange on the end of the steel hook, and make the shank of the hook long enough to get to the bottom of the steel container you will have no problemsFor safetyit would be best to use two of these hooks, located so that they give a reasonably straight pull when you put the crane onThe shanks of the hooks will need to be about 1.1/2 to 2 diameter, and the eyes to take the crane hooks about 4 dia.
If the cable is damaged then you must replace itIf its just the insulation has come off the conductors because of excess heat then you can replace the insulationElectricians use hollow tubing and heat-shrink to replace the insulation to cables that are okbut need to be covered.
