Rivet Replacement: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup, 2005 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2005 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Do not drill outside the rivet into the frame because that will weaken the frame.

Fig 1: Drilling Pilot Hole Through Rivet

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Drill an 1/8-inch pilot hole through the rivet.
Re-drill an 9/32-inch hole through the shank of the rivet.

Fig 2: Drilling Through Rivet
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the rivet head using an air chisel.

Fig 3: Identifying Rivet Head
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Drive out the rivet with a punch.

Fig 4: Driving Out Rivet Using Punch
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If applicable, cut and grind off the welds connecting the support.
Remove the support.