1970VetteTN

Can anyone give me some hints on how to install new rivets in replacement ball joints for a 1970 vette?

72LS1Vette

Many of the replacement ball joints use bolts instead of rivets. If you are concerned about original appearance you will want to have the new joints riveted in but I don't think it's a do-it-yourself proposition. Those are pretty hefty rivets.

Rick B.

NHvette

Solid steel rivets are set by hand as follows:

insert rivet through pieces ... hold pieces tightly together.
round head rivets should be supported with a rivet set.
Rivet set shown here ... for an air chisel ... but can be used with hammer, too. http://www.rivetsinstock.com/rivet62.htm
While supporting the rivet that is through the two pieces, the
straight shank of the rivet is struck with the flat surface of a ball pien hammer.
This causes the shank of the rivet to expand inside the holes.
Once tight, the ball end of the hammer is used to start forming
the rounded end.
Then, lastly - use another rivet set to finish forming the rounded
head and complete the rivet.
You should be able to find a machine shop that can do this for cheap money, but the rivet sets aren't too expensive either.

Good Luck

I'm with Rick ... I just used the bolts. Mine is the other kind of NCRS.

texaswilkins

Unless you are very qualified in the fine art of bucking rivets, use the bolts. Very few people will even know. I don't have my NCRS books here but I don't think it's much of a point deduction since it's a major safety item. A poorly set rivet will come apart and cause a lot of damage. Imagine your front wheels separating from the car while you are going around a corner with a little speed.

Bill

1970VetteTN

Thanks. I will give the bolts greater consideration before I go forward.

dennis

I think one of the venders,(Bairs?), has a bolt with a rivet head. Claim you really don't see the other end.