Fender Rivets

Old 8 Guy · Oct 27, 2013

Have cleaned and primed fenders and brackets, and the new rivets are ready to install. Since I"ve never done this before, is there a special tool for installing these rivets, (other than a Big A** hammer), and should I apply heat to install them?

When I took things apart, I noticed that the rivets were neatly rounded, which is the reason I"m wondering if there is a special tool for installation.

Thanks.

WW2N · Oct 27, 2013

Most ask how to take them out. I have replaced rivets with carriage bolts, but here's what you do. First did you get a good clean hole nice and round so you wont clench (bend) it when you drive it. Did you get a mild steel or aluminum rivet? I would say at the Ford plant they were put in with a rivet press and that is how I would do it. I can tell you how to do it at home but if its a steel rivet it will take some some real power to drive it. You will need a air tool like you cut tail pipe an muffler off with and convex driver attachment, Flat driver will work, and a bucking bar. Its simple if you have that stuff. Farmer way is messy and crude you will need a large ball peen hammer. Post back if you want to do it at home but a press is best. I have driven thousands (really) in airplanes, helos,& boats and iron. Even I would have it pressed in.

Royse · Oct 27, 2013

A press would be best, but hard to find with jaws big enough.
There are some bolts made to mimic the rivets on the seat side.
They're basically like carriage bolts, but instead of a square shank
they have a spiral shank to hold in the round hole.
I think Dennis Carpenter sells them.

As an aside, I would paint the brackets and the fenders, at least
the inside of the fenders, before riveting.
Primer is not water tight like paint is so more prone to rust.
Paint a cover coat after to make them all the same color if desired.

Dollar Bill · Oct 28, 2013

Steel rivets need to be hot in order set them properly and you have to work fast to set them before the rivet cools. You'll need tongs to handle the hot rivets, a hammer, welders gloves, and a bucking bar. Clamp everything into place. Heat the rivet to a medium red. Pick it up with the tongs and insert it into the hole. Place the bucking bar over the head and then strike the tail end of the rivet with a good blow from the hammer to set the rivet.

A little practice in some scrap steel will build your confidence.

As already mentioned, Torx drive button head bolts will be easier, safer and faster. Just fill the Torx socket with Bondo or JB Weld and by the time it's painted, you'll likely not even notice the difference.

TORX HEAD FASTENER

Fender Rivets

Old 8 Guy

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WW2N

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Royse

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Dollar Bill

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