Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Does anyone have a good method to install a new patent plate on the firewall of a 28/29 with split rivets. I know it will take two people, one to press on the rivet head from the outside and one to installed it on the inside. The problem is getting to the split ends inside between the gas tank and the inside of the firewall. I am wonder what kind of tool would work best to bend the split ends over - just a regular screwdriver?
Rusty Nelson

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Fine Point?? or driver. If driver, I would cut the rivit heads off and "glue" with silicone caulk the plate and rivits in appropiate place. JMO
Paul in CT

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

The proper rivet is the "nail-in" type. The rivet has an alignment shaft that is knurled at th top and that part drives into the rivet hole and holds the plate in place. One man operation.

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

My bad, I should have qualified my answer with 30-31.

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Rusty, the Judging Standards say, 'All rivets were installed with the rivet head on the engine side of the firewall.' However, I have seen several totally original A's that have the split rivet heads on the inside of the firewall.

My rebelious side says "Be Unique!". My fine point side says, "Follow the JS!". Personally I believe that the important thing is that all 4 rivets face the same way.

Dean

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Does anyone sell just the drive in type rivets?

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

yes SNYDERS NEW SPRINGFIELD OHIO 1 888 262 5712

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

i also would like to know the answer to the original question.....

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Maybe taking a cheapo long screwdriver and bending it into an L shape, sharpen the tip. Sliding up between the tank and firewall, place the slot in the rivet, pushing in from front and twisting the screwdriver to open the rivet

Re: Riveting the patent plate on firewall
 

Mike,
That sounds like an idea to try. I have four 28/29 A's, so if the tool works, I would have it for the next three A's I restore.
Thanks,
Rusty Nelson