removing rivets wheel splash shield?

[Nadine UK GTS]

I'm removing my splash-shields from the front wheelhouses, they appear to just be held with large head steel rivets. Do I need to drill the rivet centers out, or if I can sheer the heads off the rivets will the pin part knock through (and fall to out onto the floor, and must I use rivets when I reinstall)?

(I've not worked with rivets before...I'm only used to screws or bolts!)

Thanks, any tips much appreciated.

 

[ewave]

Nadine,

I recently removed one of my splash guards. I used a drill for most of the rivets. On some I couldn't get enough room for the drill, so I used a grinder. After you get the heads of the rives off you can remove the large washers, and then the splash guard. You then use a center punch to push what's left of the rivet out.

Hope this helps.
Paul

 

[GTS Dean]

I've found it easier to drive the pin out, then drill the head off with a 3/8" bit. Once the wheel wells are off, knock the remainder of the rivet in with a 1/4" punch. The pins and shanks of the rivets will end up at the bottom of the upper frame rail tubes, just ahead of the toe box. You'll have to use either a hefty screwdriver or a heel bar to help them find their way out.

When you get ready to put the wheel wells back in, get yourself a dozen plastic push fasteners like you find near the battery access panel. It makes engine and suspension cleaning & maintenance easier.

 

[Viper Wizard]

Hi Nadine,
Yes you can drill out or grind off the heads of the rivets, they're not that easy to get out.[patience]
When you go back with the sheilds the rivets you need are not available from DC, but I found them from "Lawson Products Inc." Part #89162 "1/4 Peel Type Rivet". www.lawsonproducts.com
You'll need the rivet gun to install them, maybe you can borrow one from your local body shop?
Good Luck with getting your baby back on the road!

 

[Nadine UK GTS]

Thanks guys for the help and answers, I'm going straight out into the garage now, armed with my drill, grinder, punch and hammer...on a mission!