Replace Rivets on Body Mount #2

[Monte M.]

In looking at a 1963, I noticed that the rivets on body mount #2 (engine compartment passenger side) are loose or missing. I am not sure why, but it looks like the passenger side fender has been replaced at some point.

The engine will be out of the car and I was wondering how hard it is to replace these rivets. They are very easy to access from the outside, (engine compartment) but how hard is it to get to them from the inside to peen the rivets over? I know the kick panels will have to come off and the vent door may even have to come out. If those are out of the way, is there access?

If it is not accessible enough on the inside to peen the rivets over, is it accessible enough to machine rivets and put threads on the shank end going into the car and get a nut on them to at least make them look correct from the outside? This would hold things together at least.

Any ideas or comments would be appreciated.

Monte

[Douglas C.]

Re: Replace Rivets on Body Mount #2

Monte,

I had the exact same problem with my '63 Convt. But, in my case, I had removed my front-end and was able to get "difficult" access to the back-side reinforcement plate, where the rivets go through, by reaching down from the top. I was able to purchase some "rivet screws" and with some slight grinding on the heads, I was able to duplicate, exactly, the same appearance as the original rivets.

I then drilled out my rivets and replaced them with the screws. With a little work - they are dead-on to the rivet head in appearance.

I was able to construct a wrench that I could reach down inside the top of the birdcage and tighten the nuts on each of the screws. I used nylon locking screws. For added security, I added some additional bonding agent on top of each screw / nut combinations. Don't think they'll be coming loose anytime soon. I'm sure with a little work, you could also apply Lok-tite to the threads.

You can't tell they're not rivets by looking. Best news, I didn't have to remove and re-glass my plenum panel.

I will try to post pictures later this week, if I get a chance.

[Douglas C.]

Re: Replace Rivets on Body Mount #2

Monte,

It's been a while, but I recall I had to buy a quantity of "100" of those rivet screws. I'm sure I have a bucket of them somewhere in my garage.

If you want to drop me a PM with your address, I will send you some to try out.

I may have a few that have the head already ground down for the correct appearance.

--Doug

[Monte M.]

Re: Replace Rivets on Body Mount #2

THANK YOU!
Doug,
I just want to say "Thank you" Doug for your help.
I really appreciate you going out of your way to help me resolve my body mount issue.
It is guys like you that make this hobby what it is.
Thanks Again,
Monte

[Douglas C.]

Re: Replace Rivets on Body Mount #2

Monte,
No problem. Please just keep any extras - I have a bag of about 100 of these and don't expect I'll need any more - except when I do my SWC one day (another story).

As I recall, my rivets became loose because the internal reinforcement plate had become rusted. I was able to purchase and install a new repro plate prior to installing the rivet screws.Again my fix may be different as I had my front end removed and was able to reach inside from the top of the birdcage, along the door hinge line.

Oddly, for some reason - it seems that the passenger side of my car overall, tended to have more rust than the drivers side. I've owned my car since 1988 and took it off the road in 1992. Its been in a garage ever since.

.--Doug