Hitman's Pontiac Trans Am Forum

Trans Am Information => Trans Am Tech => Suspension => Topic started by: Ag77T/A on March 31, 2013, 03:52:38 PM

Title: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: Ag77T/A on March 31, 2013, 03:52:38 PM

I thought I would share my rivet nut repair.

A couple of bolts were stripped out of the sway bar frame mounts on my replacement subframe.  Evidently some of the later frames were just threaded like the camaros and did not use rivet nuts so I decided to install some like my original '77.

I sourced the large flange steel 3/8-16 inserts from  Fastenal SKU:0125625  (http://www.fastenal.com/web/products/details/0125625?searchMode=productSearch&rfqXref=&rfqKeyword=&rfqId=&rfqLineId=)

I had the benefit of borrowing the installation tool but after a quick search  WWW.HANSONRIVET.COM (http://www.hansonrivet.com/w69/detail_wrench-type.htm) sells the same type I used plus gives a little instruction on proper use.


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First I drilled out the original bolt threads to a size slightly smaller than the OD of the rivet nut then used a rotary rasp to make sure I had a snug fit with the knurls to keep it from rotating during installation.

(http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q745/backinbama/Forum%20Pics/IMG_20130331_131151_zps014c823a.jpg)


I then used a rivet nut tool to install making sure not to crush the nut by overtightened the tool.
If you don't have a tool you can make your own using a hardened bolt and nut with a couple of thick washers.

(http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q745/backinbama/Forum%20Pics/IMG_20130331_131304_zpsa383566e.jpg)


Finished product that IMHO is a much stronger mounting point.

(http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q745/backinbama/Forum%20Pics/IMG_20130331_135251_zpsff3189b2.jpg)

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: gilbertsta on March 31, 2013, 04:02:32 PM

looks great!

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: Greenbird76 on July 23, 2013, 10:19:20 AM

Looks really nice and clean.  Good work

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: TransAmconvert on August 12, 2013, 11:51:14 PM

I had same problem with rusted Rivetnuts and grinded them off. It was hard to find rivetnuts until I saw your message. Fastenal ordered for me and got them next day shipping. I installed them, using bolt with nut paired with double washer to tighten the rivetnuts to frame. Thanks AG for the information.  ;D

Rick

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: Ag77T/A on August 13, 2013, 06:48:07 PM

Glad to hear some of my info helped you out.  I've gotten so much information from the members here it's good to hear I've contributed to the board myself.

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: dpoltzer on October 28, 2013, 03:25:18 PM

Hi and thanks for the great post.  I can get the rivet nuts for a buck a piece but Fastenall wants over $100 for the tool.  Can you explain how I would make my own  tool with the hardened bolt please?

Thanks,

Dave

Title: Re: Sway Bar Frame Mount Rivet Nut Replacement.
Post by: Craig on October 29, 2013, 02:38:34 AM

Perfect timing for me. I need to do this and that tool company is 10 minutes from my house. Is that rivnut for the stock size bolts?

There are several videos on YouTube how to make the tool. I tried to make one. Worked on 2 of the 4 rivnuts on my Honda. It's crude, but works (sometimes) in a pinch.
Thanks!