a riveting question

[thom]

Several of my bikes either need the fender stays replaced or restored. I have found the rivets for sale on the 'net and found a how-to video about restoring a 1955 Tonka truck using similar rivets. I believe I can make a tool by modifying a c-clamp. Anybody been there and done that? Thanks.

 

[RustySprockets]

I think a c-clamp would be awkward to hold, but the basic idea is sound. If I had only a couple of these to replace, I'd simply order the proper flaring punch and anvil designed for the size rivet I want to use. You can pick them up for only a few bucks on fleaBay. The pricey rivet press is nice to have, but really only needed in a production environment.

 

[Schwinnspastic]

Yep done the modified C clamp, it works but I find it easier to use a roll pin punch and hammer.
Neither method rolled the rivet correctly but was tight enough for me. Note, I did add a washer on the slotted brace on one but the rivet was just barely long enough. Another note, I wasn't worried about scratching the paint when using the punch and hammer but did have a piece of hard rubber under the fender to try and avoid it anyhow.
Mark

 

[thom]

I really want to be able to make the head of the rivets look like they did from the factory. Most of the time I have no help, so I need a method that one person can do. I'm thinking that I could do the c-clamp . One side of the clamp needs a slightly concave surface to fit the head of the rivet and the other side needs to be shaped right to spread the rivet. It seems to me that the screw handle should be on the concave side so all the hand motion wont be between the fender stays.

 

[us56456712]

I use these faux rivets, can't tell the difference and there is on scratching as it is a modified nut and bolt. You can also just buy the rivets. I have used these fender rivets many times.
Vintage Schwinn Bicycle KM Chainguard Screws Nuts Bolts Fender Brace Rivets Bike