bugeye grill installation

[kalist]

I am installing the grille in my bugeye. I have the Moss plastic nipples that go on the studs to hold the grill in. I am having a problem getting them tight enough to hold the grill snug to the body on the top edge. Any ideas on how to proceed on this? Thanks - Jan

 

[The_architect]

How about using flat speed-nuts instead?

 

[Billm]

Do the nipples go on after the grill is on or do they go into the holes in the body first and then the grill goes into them? (I don't know)
BillM

 

[The_architect]

Hmm. Now that's a good question! Something similar came with my Sprite arrow trim. Never occurred to me that you'd put those plastic deals on and then shove it into the holes.
Charlie

 

[nomad]

Speed nuts---toss the plastic things. Those are the same things they use on the Sprite arrow and on blind hole trim pieces. They were originally a nice little metal fitting but if still available must be to expensive for the big companys to fool with.

Kurt.

 

[Gundy]

My new grill from AHSpares came with the little metal deals.
You can cinch them up pretty tight. I'd guess they sell them separately.

 

[RickB]

I used nylon wing nuts on the backside of my grille.
You just push while you twist, they are on very firmly and are easy enough to remove if needed.

 

[kalist]

I had thought about speed nuts. Does anyone know what size works best?

 

[James_the_elder]

Go to McMaster-Carr and find the speed nut page. That's what you need. Sometimes
they are called Tinnerman Fasteners.

 

[BillW103]

I used the plastic ones on my Sprite arrow and they cam off and I almost lost the arrow. I used the flat speed nut on the grill and the arrow. I took the arrow with me to the hardware store and found ones that fit I think 1/8”. You cane use a small deep socket on a driver handle and push them on.

 

[sqbsprite]

There are pros and cons to both methods. The metal speed nuts hold tight but sometimes are hard to remove if needed and the metal to metal contact of the badge,grille, etc, is a good place for rust to begin. The nylon snaps go in the hole first and then the stud presses into it for a tight fit and no metal to rust. It requires a good fit.The grill or badge must fit without putting any stress on the studs and causing them to pop out.

I used to use a rubber mastic that would not dry out. A small ball pressed and flattened on the stud holds it and not only does not cause rust, but actually seals the hole to prevent water from getting into the boot or other area. The mastic is used for seam sealer. You can use rope caulk as well.

 

[smaceng]

I had one corner which I could not hold down. I threaded the post and put a nut on it. Holds great. I'm sure you could do it to more than one. I used small rubber washers between the grille and the body to add some cushion.
Scott in CA

 

[kalist]

Speed nuts did the trick! Thanks.