proper rivet removal?

[lakeorbay]

I'm handy with tools, so I know everything can have it's problems and it's best to research things before you try them. I'm just trying to eliminate the learning curve.

I figure drill from the inside out is the way to go. It also seems using some kind of nail punch to keep the drill bit centered, would help. I'm not sure what size drill bit to use. The size of the actual hole is smaller than what is seen, correct?

I know some of you have done this before. Input would be appreciated.

 

[zach103]

Re: proper rivet removal?

for mine i just took the same size drill bit and drilled away.. no nail punch

 

[Titanium]

Re: proper rivet removal?

lakeorbay,

I haven't drilled out very many rivets, but the dozen or so that I have done over the years I have always drilled from the outside-in. The dimple in the rivet seems to keep the drill bit centered just fine. I usually use a drill bit that is just a tad larger than the shank of the rivet.

Let us know how it goes.

 

[willyrocket]

Re: proper rivet removal?

Drill from the head of the rivet. (usually a dimple is on the head so no need for a punch to start with) Drill about 2/3rds of the way into the rivet. You want to use a size drill that is smaller than the rivet shank. Dont drill all the way through the rivet. Next step up a size or two on your drill bit, and drill just deep enough to pop the head off (most times you wont need to do this, you can use your punch to pry the head off, actually you dont need to pry, it should just "pop" off). Next take a punch that will fit into the first hole you drilled, and punch it with a hammer, knocking out the rivet. Usually, this way will not mess up your hole (which is the ultimate goal you would like to achieve) and you can use the same size rivet and not have a "wallowered" out hole. If you use a bit thats the same size as the rivet and drill all the way through, unless you drill absolutely perfect, you will probably go off center, and make the original hole larger. If that happens just use a larger rivet.

I should have asked first though, what kind of rivets????

I ll take a few pics, next time at work.

And "generally" on boats, the "head" of the rivet is on the outside, while the "bucktail" is on the inside.

I know it may seem not very important about the size of your holes, but from what ive seen at work, if the hole is just a bit larger than the rivet, over time, the rivet will begin to loosen. We call this a working rivet. After time, it loosens to the point of failure, i.e., water leakage.... You also want to ensure both pieces of material you are joining with the fastener, are flush with each other. I have noticed this on my starcraft I am doing. Where the ribs are riveted to the hull, a few areas do not sit flush with the hull. 5 different spots. 3 of these spots, where rivets were, the rivets were loose.

 

[willyrocket]

Re: proper rivet removal?

 

[lakeorbay]

Re: proper rivet removal?

This is awsome. I'm glad I asked.

I didn't buy rivets yet. I didn't even know there were different types for small boats. Unfortunatly I have other things to do, so I won't get to this for a couple of days. I'll check into it.

Any recommendations on a rivet gun?

 

[willyrocket]

Re: proper rivet removal?

solid shank, aluminum. Have an air compressor? Do you have access to both sides of the rivet? How many rivets you need to install and/or replace?

One other thing to consider, when driving the rivet out with the punch, if the piece does not have any kind of bracing on the backside (like if its just 2 flat pieces of aluminum) go easy at first, or you may dent the material if the rivet doesnt come out easy.

 

[lakeorbay]

Re: proper rivet removal?

willyrocket, your response about the working rivet is exactly why I asked the question. I figured I better get this right. Glad you were paying attention.

 

[willyrocket]

Re: proper rivet removal?

I just stayed at a Holiday Inn............

 

[willyrocket]

Re: proper rivet removal?

What are ya working on? Any pics?

 

[lakeorbay]

Re: proper rivet removal?

I just stayed at a Holiday Inn............

Classic! Good laugh off of that one.

Yes I do have an air compressor. I believe in buying tools for the job. I just got into the floor today. I still need to remove some pieces (riveted) to get to the rivets at the bottom.

I see now, that I'm going to be at this for awhile, so I'm going to start a project thread w/pics. Soon as I find time. I have 2 little ones climbing on my neck half the time and a house remodel going on by me,me and me.....and I didn't stay at a Holidy Inn last night.

I just acquired a '87 17' Lund Tyee 5.3. No motor, so I have an opportunity to custom fit this boat for my needs. Those being, fishing hard, camping and getting my kids or whoever else needs it outside.

I appreciate the interest. I hope you find my next thread.

 

[lakeorbay]

Re: proper rivet removal?

The rivets on the outside my boat are smooth with no indention in the middle to hole a drill bit still. On the inside they are flat with no indention to hold a drill bit still. I guess I'm going to have to use a center punch and hope for the best.

outside

inside

this is my heap

I wanted to post bigger pics, but this is how they came out.

 

[Rickairmedic]

Re: proper rivet removal?

Lake I dont know how anybody here feels about Harbor Freight but they actually sell a decent spring loaded center punch. Simply center it where you want it push it against the rivet and it will make a nice mark as it bottoms out and the spring kicks in.


http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=621


Rick

 

[lakeorbay]

Re: proper rivet removal?

Thanks for the reply rickairmedic. I have a punch very similar. As a precautionary measure, I asked the question of those that have done this before to avoid bad things (I have enough of those). I don't want to make the holes too big or whatever. At this point, I will take the advice and common sense I have and proceed. Wish me luck.