Topic: Vent Frame: Reattaching S.S. Channel to Chrome Frame

[Angela]

In order to have the vent frames rechromed, I removed the two rivets which hold the S.S. glass run channel to the chrome vent window frame. I was under the assumption that many people later replace these two rivets using new pop-rivets. If true, how on earth do you gain access to these rivets with a pop rivet gun? I own two pop rivet guns and neither come close to fitting into this space. I didn't realize there is a clearance issue until after the frames were back from chrome...

If pop-rivets cannot be used, how do you guys reattach the channel? I've seen one reassembled using panel adhesive, yet I don't know what brand or part number, nor do I know how well that adhesive held long term. 

[carlite65]

there are special rivits & a special tool for this task, neither of which i possess.
i know charles has done this, maybe he will respond. it can be done.

[Angela]

I should probably mention that the holes have already been drilled out to accept a 3/16" pop-rivet, thus I may have few if any other option than the pop-rivets. I just cannot fit the head of the pop-rivet gun into this space.

[TLea]

 curious  as  to why  you drilled out to 3/16"? I have no  problem getting my rivet gun in there but using 1/8" tip. try slipping a few small washers onto shaft of rivet to extend reach

[Angela]

Tim, I didn't drill them out... someone else did and I don't know why. Nevertheless, the holes perfectly fit a 3/16" pop-rivet.
Could you tell me or post a photo of the pop-rivet gun you used that will reach into that space? I could stack two dozen washers and still not reach the rivets using either of the two rivet guns I own. I even tried grinding down part of one of my rivet guns but it still won't reach.

[sparky65]

I am pretty sure I used my cheap harbor freight pop rivet tool.  I think it was tight but could just press it in there.   I really dont recall it being anything difficult.  I think its this one:
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-riveter-set-38353.html

[Rsanter]

Option 1
Get a few solid aircraft rivits. You will need a block of steel that will fit into the channel and then you use a hammer and punch to buck the rivits

Option 2
Use the pop rivits in the same way by removing the center 'nail' or stud.
Install the rivits similar to above but start with a center punch to get the rivit to start to spread and then finish with a transfer punch to flatten it out

Bob

[Angela]

Sparky: thanks for the link! I didn't buy my riveter from Harbor Friehgt, yet mine looks identical tot he one they are selling. It would not even come close to fitting into this space.... not even after I significantly altered it by grinding a substantial amount of material from the nose piece and head mechanism.

Bob: Thanks.... I guess I'll have to look for some "how-to" info on setting solid rivets. I've never successfully been able to set a solid rivet.... it always ends badly and fails to hold. 

[sparky65]

Sparky: thanks for the link! I didn't buy my riveter from Harbor Friehgt, yet mine looks identical tot he one they are selling. It would not even come close to fitting into this space.... not even after I significantly altered it by grinding a substantial amount of material from the nose piece and head mechanism.

Interesting mine is real close.  I had to go get mine out,  also grabbed a spare channel I had laying around.  The head on mine measure 0.81 inches in diameter.  Which doesn't really fit nicely, but if I give it a push it bends the channel open just enough to slide in there.  Once I pulled it back out the channel seemed to snap back to the original size without deforming.  Looking at the wear marks on it I think that's what all i did.  Isn't that end inside the door anyway?  So if by chance it does slightly deform you wont see it.