Original rivets to be replaced with removable ones

[Cos]

Hi,


Not sure of you have the same frustration like I do when I see some panels (bottom ones especially) which are fixed with permanent rivets that must be drilled in to be able to remove the bottom panel. I have a sidewinder and Skidoo and both have the same way to fix the bottom panels.


Of course to work properly on the machine (oil change, chain case, muffler etc…) I would like to remove the bottom panels so there is more room for inspection as well.. For that I must drill the existing rivets and buy new ones to replace every time. Next year, will have to repeat the same procedure. Skidoo rivets cost about 1.00 per unit so will cost me about 15.00 every time I need to remove the panel to work in the machine…


My question is this: are there any rivets of any sort that can replace the original ones which can be easily unscrewed or taken off without drilling? Then to be put back just the same so next time removing and putting back panels will not require drilling nor spending money on new rivets.


Please send link where to buy and pictures if you have found a solution to this, thanks.

 

[MrSled]

You can use a bolt and a threaded insert or a riv-nut.

 

[ClutchMaster]

Yes they look like this and are available through McMaster Carr

 

[ClutchMaster]

Don’t forget the install tool

 

[hibshman25]

I've been using these. Just drill the holes out bigger.

http://www.barnofparts.com/apps/webstore/products/show/7107089

 

[ClutchMaster]

https://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-rivet-nuts/=1ap1hmq

I use the aluminum ones but have some steel ones also for strength when needed.

 

[ClutchMaster]

Install tool I use the cheapie screw in tool

https://www.mcmaster.com/#installation-tools-for-ribbed-rivet-nuts/=1ap1jzt

 

[ClutchMaster]

If your paying $ for rivets you also need to look at buy a box of 3/16” the stainless rivets are much stronger and pull tighter than yamaha rivets. They have back up washers also.

https://www.mcmaster.com/#rivets/=1ap1lxf

 

[burlyviper]

I just blew a belt and need to replace the clutch side lower panel. After drilling out the rivets, I remember various threads about riv-nuts and other alternatives. Is the above still the best alternative?

 

[Fords4life]

I personaly like the rivet nuts, just this fall did both my sleds this way, rounded up stainless rivnuts, uesed nickle antisieze on bolts on assembly, can use your choice of bolt, allen head, hex head, philips head, torx, very nice for maintaince... youll wish you had done it sooner! Happy New Year to all.

 

[burlyviper]

What was the exact size that you used? Thread, length, type? Thanks

 

[RAMSOMAIR]

6mm

 

[Confused]

I just did this to my SW and also used M6 button head bolts. I purchased my rivnut tool from Amazon. It is the bigger 2 lever tool.

 

[Fords4life]

What was the exact size that you used? Thread, length, type? Thanks

I uesed 5mm by .75 inch long stainless steel pan head philips drive, bought the tool and rivnuts off amazon, have uesed this tool for many projects, money well spent.

 

[02ViperMody44]

I bought M5 stainless with T25 button head. T25 is nice as it matches most other screws on the sled