Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

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jeeep

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Jun 19, 2011
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Hey guys,
I have an old tracker that has several rivets along the bottom that are leaking. The manufacturer used solid rivets therefore should I use solid rivets when replacing the old rivets? If so, the problem I have is that I dont have the proper tools (pneumatic impact gun and bucking bar). If I have to I can use a hammer and a piece of steel and make it work but why cant I use pop rivets coated with epoxy? Are pop rivets less strong? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you!
 

robert graham

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Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

Get some stainless steel phillips head machine screws with nyloc nuts, about 1/8" diameter and about 3/8" long(or whatever size fits the best), phillips head goes on the outside of hull with nuts on the inside. I've used these for 20+ years on my riveted aluminum canoe to replace loose, warn or missing rivets, they work like a charm! Ace Hardware has them! Good Luck!
 

jigngrub

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Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

Use closed end 1/4" pop rivets like these dipped in a little epoxy for a waterproof installation. Easy one man installation.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0MA1-5NXjs&feature=related

You'll need the heavy duty rivet tool, but you can get one of those from harbour freight for $20. You can get a box of 100 rivets from jay cees for $17.

If you're going to own a riveted boat you need the tools to work on it.

Rivet tool

http://www.harborfreight.com/heavy-...and-riveter-with-collection-bottle-66422.html

Rivets

http://www.rivetsonline.com/blind-rivets-en/closed-end-blind-rivets.html
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
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Apr 17, 2002
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71,084
Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

Ayuh,... I use solid aluminum closed end 3/16" pop rivets in my tinboats,...
No sealer, No worries...
Quality rivet gun though,....
 

jeeep

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Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

sorry, one last question: do i need a washer rivet for the closed end pop rivets?
 

jigngrub

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Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

Nope!

Just do it like the video and you're good to go.
 

Grandad

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Jun 7, 2011
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Re: Solid rivet Versus Pop rivet

Hey guys,
I have an old tracker that has several rivets along the bottom that are leaking. The manufacturer used solid rivets therefore should I use solid rivets when replacing the old rivets? If so, the problem I have is that I dont have the proper tools (pneumatic impact gun and bucking bar). If I have to I can use a hammer and a piece of steel and make it work but why cant I use pop rivets coated with epoxy? Are pop rivets less strong? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Jeeep, yes there is a difference in the strength of pop rivets versus solid rivets. Which you use may depend on how accessible the backside of the rivets are. I've just had to do some research on solid rivets that I chose to make repairs to my old Starcraft Holiday. Since the floor was out anyway, I chose solid rivets that are much stronger than the pop type. There are also differences in solid aluminum rivets. Soft alloy for cosmetic use and tougher heat treated for structural. I used the tougher variety to replace about 60 rivets between structural ribs and the hull skin.

I used my cheap air chisel with the compressor regulator set about 40 PSI and a local regulator ($10) at the tool. The .401" universal rivet tool attachment was less than $10 and I used a scrap 3/4" steel bar for a bucking bar. Rivets less than $10. If you already have the air tools, it's very little investment for the best repair. And it was easy. Since Iboats doesn't list solid rivets, I got my materials from Aircraft Spruce. http://www.aircraftspruce.com/
- Grandad
 
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