C2 Kick Panels

[Dave K.]

The Al Knoch replacement kick panels require rivets to be installed through the carpet and back board. These rivets are only to provide a clean hole for the screws to fasten the kick panel to the body under the dash. These rivets are flared on one end and the factory crimped the other end against the back reinforcing board. I'm finding these rivets to be a little short and don't come through the carpet and reinforcing board (so thay can be crimped) unless you exert a lot of force. I'm concerned about damaging the reinforcing board. What technique has been used to fasten these rivets in the kick panels?

Regards,
Dave Kitch
33108

[Justin N.]

Re: C2 67 Kick Panels

Dave,
Here's a shot of my original 67 bright blue kick panel. I think this is the rivet you are speaking about. Maybe something like a "C" clamp to have enough clearance and squish rivet flush against fiberboard and carpeting?
Justin #41362

[Randy S.]

Re: C2 Kick Panels

Dave,

My 66 kick panels may not be original but the reinforcing rivet is only in the backboard and not the carpet. Curious to see what others report.

Randy

[Justin N.]

Makes sense....

...because this is where the metal pinch cap goes over kick panel. You can also see how my rivet is off to the side of the carpeting more on the fiberboard. Mine are the originals, so this is a factory application.
Justin #41362

[Jason B.]

Re: Makes sense....

Justin,

Can you send me any more pictures on how the whole kick panel area goes together? Like carpet, panel, pinch cap, windlace, rivets & screws. My 65 didn't have so much as carpet or anything in the kick panels when I bought it. Thank you.

Jason

[Justin N.]

67 Assembly manual....

....is the best I can do until I go out there this weekend for photos.
Justin

[Wayne P.]

Re: 67 Assembly manual....

I don't believe Al's replacements are intended to be crimped, just to look sort of correct from the outside.

[Michael D.]

Re: 67 Assembly manual....

I believe that is not a rivet but a countersunk washer that is peened over. I would use a counter sink washer not a rivet. You will get the same effect as the original except it is not fastened to the kick panel. Any auto store or even Home depot or Lowes should carry them