Riveting

[jhorton3]

I'm going to need to rivet trim pieces like the front grill chrome surround, chrome strip above the rocker panels, and the MIDGET letters. What kind of riveting device should I look for to do these projects? Do I need a riveter that'll attach to my air compressor? Also is there a one size fits all rivet, or will I need different types?

 

[AlamedaMGB]

I'd use a manual Pop-Rivet gun.. They are available at your local hardware store, and a good ACE hardware or similar will have a variety of pop rivets in aluminum, stainless, and even copper. There is a pin through the middle of the rivet, and the gun pulls that pin out and breaks it off.. When it pulls out, the back of the rivet expands to lock the pieces in place.

When you are using it, make sure the panels are firmly together, as if you lock them in a 'loose' position, you wil l have to drill out the rivet and plug it again.

Also, the hardware store will sell washers that are sized to the rivets.. If you put one of these on the back of the panel, it will reinforce the connection.

These are the same type of rivets that I put on my window seals and sun-visors.

Joe Bob says "Check it out"

 

[dklawson]

One point worth adding to the above is to "dry-fit" all the parts. When you have a part requiring multiple rivets, fit several rivets loosely to/through the mating items so that all the holes line up (just like parts held on with multiple screws). You don't want to fasten the first rivet only to find out you can't get the other holes to line up.

 

[Trevor Jessie]

And use an aluminum rivet that does not rust.

 

[rjhorizon]

The Midget letters are not riveted. You need plastic fittings that are pushed in the holes and the letters have pins that slide into the plastic pieces. Not sure of correct terminology. They are available from Moss or VB.