Rivet Squeezer

[gcrump01]

Anyone ever tried one of these? Thought it might be worth it since I'll be putting 2 tops together.

Hand Rivet Squeezer Kit 3" Reach w/ 6 Rivet Sets ***New***

thoughts?

 

[SMG]

Yes, as a former aircraft mechanic I used that type of rivet squeezer all the time.
Just make sure the throat is deep enough for what you are doing.
I believe it should work perfect for a hardtop rain gutter.
Also, make sure it comes with the right size rivet set.

 

[gcrump01]

what size rivet set do I need? 3/16?

 

[47coeman]

Looks like a great tool I will need one with my next top repair.

 

[B y r o n]

I haven't measured the gutter to see for certain or not but it looks like you might be able to get away with 1-1/2" reach or you can pick up a set that has both just in case.

 

[emac]

I bought one of those and used it on my 40 top restoration. It worked great. The only rivets I couldn't get too were for the front visor, and I fabbed up something using the die from the kit, a pice of rod iron and a hammer.

 

[gcrump01]

Good point - I forgot about those on the visor piece.

 

[emac]

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005VR85WM/?tag=ihco-20

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005VR7PA0/?tag=ihco-20

This is the one I used.

 

[oestlarsen]

i am doing a top too. This tool seems to be perfect candidate for sharing/passing on

 

[Splangy]

I use 5/32x3/8" aluminum round head rivets. Most of the river holes get buggered out so I chase each hole with a 5/32 drill to freshen them up first.

 

[gcrump01]

5/32 x 3/8 brazier head aluminum rivets are perfect. That rivet squeezing tool is incredible. I put two tops together in about 3 hours!

 

[mtquivr]

That looks great.
I need to do mine, the PO used pop rivets, and the top needs to be refinished.

 

[tstepp920]

If you are finished with the rivet squeezer would you consider selling it? If so PM me.

 

[shipmag]

So whats the best top finish paint ir gelcoat being its fiberglass? Paint the steel first the put
A gelcoat on the top then seam seal then pop rivet? Whats the best way to do it?

 

[gcrump01]

If you are finished with the rivet squeezer would you consider selling it? If so PM me.

Sorry, not mine. It's a loaner.

 

[Splangy]

So whats the best top finish paint ir gelcoat being its fiberglass? Paint the steel first the put
A gelcoat on the top then seam seal then pop rivet? Whats the best way to do it?

It's already gelcoated. No need to apply more unless there's some damage. Here's what I do:

1) Properly prep drip rail and fiberglass

2) coat with epoxy primer

3) rivet assembly together.

4) do any bodywork that needs to be done

5) apply surfacer primer

6) block it straight

7) repeat steps 5&6 as needed

8) paint

 

[emac]

Here is what it looks like when you do like splangly said. Mine needed a lot of #4! I put a coat of 3m self leveling sealer on the drip rail prior to paint to seal the rivets.

 

[Splangy]

Here is what it looks like when you do like splangly said. Mine needed a lot of #4! I put a coat of 3m self leveling sealer on the drip rail prior to paint to seal the rivets.

Doh! Forgot the seam sealer in my list!

 

[Disasterman]

Best place to buy the rivets? McMaster Carr?

 

[gcrump01]

or Grainger since we have a local store. Free shipping to store.