I’m sure this has been kicked around before….I need to replace some rivets…understand typical pop rivets won’t cut it…where do you find the right tools and rivets?? thanks, Gary
You can get them at places like Grainger or Fastenal or even Hanson Rivet. If you are putting in a rivet on a seam where it will be exposed on the back you need to buck the rivrt (beat the shank down). You can use a hammer and a chunk of steel for bucking tools. If the rivet won’t be exposed you can use an Olympic rivet which is similar to a pop rivet but it has a rounded head like a solid rivet. http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/Oly … ts-179.htm They are used quite a bit on Airstream trailer restorations. Do a google search for bucking rivets and you should get lots of info.
Kirk
If planning to do much tin boat work, it would make sense to get riveting equipment–a pneumatic rivet gun, sets, and bucking bar. (You need a proper rivet gun with teasing throttle, not an ordinary air hammer.) Aircraft Tool Supply is one source. Here is another: http://www.aircraftspruce.com/pages/to/ … un2602.php
I have been considering getting a rivet gun and tools needed for this as well. I have had several rivets in a number of boats I have and had that I would have replaced if I had the tools. Right now I have 4 or 5 #8 screws and nuts on the inside in a couple ribs in my ’86 Starcraft. They are holding OK but it isn’t right and I’d rather have it done right. I may be pricing some tools as well. Thanks for posting this topic.
-Ben
I just started rivet work on my ’49 FC Vagabond. I suggest you spend the extra cash and purchase a 4X gun. The triggering allows for a smooth, slow acceleration of the action. It is well worth the money.