5 replies to this topic

[Richard_]

Hi-

I have rivetted the arches on my 998 racing green 1988 as in the image below. It was not easy and not entirely successful. I now have to do the other side.

The problem is that the rivet heads are quite deep set into a recess in the plastic arch as you can see. This means that the rivet gun wont seat down square onto the rivet head.

 

I tried a spacer tube between the gun and rivet head but the tails on the rivets are only so long.

I also tried grinding the business-end of the rivet gun to a better shape but that didn't go well. Lets just say I now need a new one!

 

Anyone got any ideas or suggestions please??  Thanks.

 

ADMIN - apologies this should probably have gone in the styling section.

 

Edited by Richard_, 08 April 2021 - 02:27 PM.

[lordcakes]

You could always use rivet nuts (riv-nuts, clinch nuts, etc) to put a permanent threaded insert into your wing and then screw the plastic arch onto them?

Can't suggest anything if you want to use normal rivets though I'm afraid.

[cooperd70]

I'd like to know how this should be done as I have an arch that needs replacing and would like to keep it stock and match the other 3 corners 🙂

[Cooperman]

Best thing is to fit flush M4 RivNuts in the wing and use M4 stainless steel cap head socket screws with small stainless steel washers.
Draper Tools sell RivNut tools and Namrick can supply the RivNuts, screws & washers.
I always fit arch extensions this way.

[Tones61]

Watch the latest vid from classic mini workshop (YouTube) ,Kieth miller,he uses a spacer between rivet and tool end

[Richard_]

Aha great idea- use a nut or two as a spacer. I shall have a go. Thanks everyone for you help.