Brian Davis15h ago

As part of #vanconversion project I've been installing 10-24 threaded rivet nuts to create attachment points in sheet metal.

I broke and returned two of the lever style rivet tools you can buy online for $50. Both had these custom mandrels (fancy machine screws) that attach to the rivet and pull the back toward the front. Both tools lacked sufficient feedback to tell me when to stop applying force, with predictable results.

This little gizmo is about $2 in parts from the hardware store and has installed dozens of rivets.

Show threadBrian Davis14h ago
The whole process could be a lot faster. I could chuck the Allen wrench in my cordless drill and set the torque limiter. I could get a drill bit of the right size. It takes something odd like 9/32 so I've been drilling 1/4" holes and using a round file. I could be using self tapping screws like everyone else. But this project is not about efficiency. It's not quite clear what it is"about" yet but I'm enjoying tinkering.
Show threadTim Stanton14h ago
@intrepidhero
I completely get it. Enjoying the process, not racing to the end like in an assembly line. Have fun with your project!
Show threadBrian Davis
@TimKStanton like any older abused vehicle it's got a lot of quirks and things that don't work quite right. It's been fun to see what I can figure out how to fix.
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