Removing rib-its...

[robertrpeak]

Getting ready to do some work on the drivetrain in my 63, going to move the whole thing forward two inchs, which will clear up several problems I have. Need to know what tool/tools would be best for removing the rivets that hold the spring hangars to the frame.
Robert

[jamesdfo]

Well, last Oct, I helped a friend while he was removing all the brackets off of a ~1950 Ford Truck frame (the brackets appeared to be forged?).
His method was to heat the head of the rivets with oxy/acetylene torch until they were a dull red, then hit them with an air chisel with a bit like the one on the left in the picture below. Then use another bit (similar to a pin punch to drive the shank out of the hole....worked pretty well with the two of us, one heating, one on the air chisel....

[longcabjohn]

Use a small cut off disc, 3 or 4 inch, and cut an x in the head then hit with air chisel. Cut deep enough that it knocks off in 4 pieces. The truck show on powernation did this on the show that I saw yesterday morning and I have done it this way. Watch for flying object when it knocks off. Then punch out the rest.


Johnny

[robertrpeak]

OK. The cutoff disc is what I had in mind, but I was thinking maybe not knocking out the rivet but maybe welding it in place to hold the crossmember after I remove the brackets. Sound good??


Robert

[slick4x4]

I would knock them out
Then use a high quality bolt & nut in thier place
That way, down the road a few years...
If you ever need to remove it
WAY easier to unbolt.... Than deal with a weld

[bruceandersson]

I just used my air hammer without the heat. Make sure you wear hearing protection if the hammer comes out.

[robertrpeak]

Thanks...