Crank hole cover rivet
 

Another rivet question….
I’m assuming there is a set of tools used o install the crank hole cover rivet. Anyone know the type/size?
Thanks!

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

Well, there is ...but you probably won't like the price of it. Search for 'Tonka Rivet Tool' and you will see what comes up.

The issue generally is unless the rivet is set uniformly around the edges, the crank hole cover will either be too stiff to turn, -or it will rattle from being loose.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

My crank hole cover was very loose too. I have some split rivets that I used to replace the loose ones. Worked great except that they are tight, and they are stainless. PM me and I will take a pic.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

I had a loose cover and I fixed it - at least for now - using a small o-ring. Took some work to wedge the ring under the rivet edges on the back of the shell, but it’s holding for the moment.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

A method to reduce the precision required is to use one of those spring washers. There are two types, conical and the ones that look like a potato chip.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

The crank hole rivet was originally a tube rivet. Originally installed on the back side of the shell was a small flat washer and a small lock washer. It is the lock washer that provided the proper tension after the rivet end was set. Use light taps and check after each tap to achieve the right tension.

No special tools are necessary. Use a proper sized drill to drill a divit into a block of steel or similar and hold in a vice. Use a round, pointed chisel to spread the rivet end and finish with a flat drift. Use tape on the rivet head during this process if you do not want to mar the finish.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

Thanks. The tool isn’t cheap, but this won’t be my last “A” either. Maybe. Ican do a few for people and recover some costs. Looks like it’ll do some other rivet jobs like the hood leather corners, etc.

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

Thanks Steve. I’ll experiment with that technique too

Re: Crank hole cover rivet
 

Tube rivet sets are available in different shank diameters but they require care in the bucking process.