The Best Way to Install a Solid Rivet

A solid rivet is a good way to attach two pieces of metal together without the use of welding. This is important if you are rebuilding a classic auto, or creating something that does not need any strong welds. The solid rivet is a fastener that is a solid tube with a head that resembles that of a flat screw. There are different ways to install a solid rivet into the workpiece, but they all depend on making a mushroom end so that it holds the two pieces together. Here are a few steps for the best way to install solid rivets in your next project.

Step 1 - Line Up Pieces

Before you get to the installation of the solid rivets you will need to line up the 2 pieces that you want to join together. Make sure that they are perfectly lined up, as you will not be able to take them apart without breaking the rivets if there is a mistake. Hold pieces in place with clamps so you can move onto the next step.

Step 2 - Mark Rivet Holes

When you install rivets into a workpiece they are slid through a hole that is already there. Use a marker, or a piece of chalk, and mark the workpiece where the rivets should go. They should be spaced every couple of inches for the best holding power. 

Step 3 - Drill Rivet Holes

Using the same diameter drill bit as the solid rivets, you can drill in the holes for the rivets. Once the holes have been completed you should go over them with a very light coating of oil to prevent rust from developing. 

Step 4 - Insert Rivets into Hole

Once the holes are all drilled into the workpiece, you can then begin to insert the solid rivets into place. You will want to work one at a time until they are all fastened in place. 

Step 5 - Use Air Hammer

Have a friend work on the other side of the workpiece with an air hammer. They will be mushrooming the end of the rivet so that it flattens out onto the work piece. When this happens the rivet is held into place. You will need to use a bucking bar, or some type of flat metal bar, to hold the rivet head in place while they use the air hammer. Place the air hammer bit on the end of the solid rivet and easily hammer it flat onto the metal surface. 

Step 6 - Repeat Process

After you have finished with the first rivet, you can then continue to put the rest of the rivets into place. Use this same method and finish the process of installing the solid rivet. 

Step 7 - Check Solid Rivets

One all of the rivets are in place, you need to go around and check them all for a tight fit. If they are loose, or move around too easily, you will need to give them another punch with the air hammer. All the rivets should be completely secure so that the metal will be stationary.