messed up drilling out rivet(s) is there any bigger than 1/4 ?

[Lund_bC]

I have been drilling out some rivets and some just went bad, probably because i was getting frustrated under the boat. Any how I have two rivet holes that are bigger than 1/4, just lightly and not perfectly round.

I was also wondering about maybe using machine screw with washers and things for these.. thanks everyone

 

[dwco5051]

Are you asking about buck rivets or pop rivets? How much too big? Milspec for buck rivets limits oversize hole not to exceed .265". A quick way to check is if a G drill will go through but a 17/64 doesn't it will pass QC. I can't remember any more where I left my truck keys but things like this from my Navy days take up space in my brain.

 

[Lund_bC]

hi thanks. So if a 17/64 doesn't go there it's ok for 1/4 rivet ?

 

[dwco5051]

I did not trust memory enough when I first posted so I looked it up just to be sure. See; www.engineersedge.com/rivet_application.htm

 

[Watermann]

The solid rivets have a shaft diameter of 3/16" on nearly all riveted hulls. You used a 1/4" drill bit and went all the way through the hull? If so you're probably to the point now where you will have use stainless machine screws and a nyloc with a washer on the inside. Be sure to use 5200 to seal the screw and isolate the stainless steel from the aluminum.

 

[Lund_bC]

HI. I wasn't actually using a 1/4 bit. I was using a 3/16 bit but because of the shape of the hull and not always getting exactly threw straight with the drill bit and things like that, i have several holes that ended up bigger. I might go ahead with the machine screws because also the way my repair is it looks like it might be an easier way to get threw everything after some research. thanks for the tips !