[rotorwrench]

When utilizing bolts as a replacement for the rivets, it is important that the bolts fit as close as possible to the rivets holes through the parts to be joined. If there is any looseness, the parts will wear against the bolt rapidly. If the holes are still fairly tight then bolts will do OK, at least for quite a while.

Mac VP uses universal length clevis pins as rivets and they fatten out pretty well due to the cotter pin holes drilled into them at different length intervals. An alternative would be to check with Big Flats Rivet Co for some softer iron or mild steel rivets that may be easier to set. A rivet fills the hole better and hardens during the driving process. This is why so many old buildings and bridges built with rivets are still standing and usable.