Tunnel Replacement

[fatchance]

So I'm faced with a tunnel replacement and wondering who has done this with success for longevity. The thought of the pounding these pro cross chassis take makes me concerned with how the rivets will hold up over the years for a non factory refirb. Looking for some real world feed back to make this decision as I have another sled Sno-checked as a replacement.

 

[maim]

i thought @cannondale27 did his on his viper.

 

[Turboflash]

The best rivets you can use are what aircraft uses - solid structural rivets such as Cherry, Avdel, Huck. Do not use any hollow pop rivets, including any all aluminum rivets if you want it to last. To use the right rivets (solid structural) you will need either a hydraulic or pneumatic riveter. A regular hand pop riveter will not do the job. If it does, you've got the wrong rivets.

 

[RobX-1]

X2 something like these

 

[maim]

the ones RobX-1 are what i use for any tunnel repairs.

my 1st one was this one https://www.harborfreight.com/3-16-inch-air-hydraulic-riveter-93458.html

wore it out and now have a mac tool one but did a crap load of rivits before i retired it.

 

[customnytromtx69]

I’ve used ADP rivets ultimate multi grip rivets with a pneumatic gun in the past and had 0 issues . I just changed the entire tunnel on my drag racing sled overall it’s not a horrible job at all .

 

[cannondale27]

I did the Tunnel one year and the Heat exchanger and rear section of tunnel last year. Definitely use the multi grip and Huck rivets. For tail section I also used the heat release glue Polaris uses. Seems very solid. Time will tell.