Another riveting thread...
 

Yesterday i was thinking about removing the rocker trim from my car and discovered that it is riveted on! I assume it was originally screwed on to aid in removal to get at the torsion bars. There are approximately 5 of these rivets holding it on. My question is, how do I remove them? Do I just drill them out and try to not go too far? Also, how should I reattach them? I assume it was riveted because the original screw holes weren't usable.

Thanks

pic:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1149085601.jpg

rivets are easy. Just drill using a bit slightly bigger than the hole in the rivet. Use light pressure and remove material from the rivet only. The "big part" will separate from the rivet going through the body and then just push it through.

Yep, drill 'em out. Then use a larger sheet metal screw to re-attach or you could use a small nut and bolt as an alternative.

Thanks. I'll most likely go back in with screws. Did the originals go into tapped holes or were they just self tapping sheet metal screws? about 3-4 screws should probably do it right? I'll probably see how I like it without any trim because I like that look too.

Do not forget to make the screws STAINLESS...................

Bob

Update:

I drilled them out. There were five of those suckers. In addition to the original screws under the rubber strip! That thing wasn't going anywhere! Thanks for the help. I'm always a little leary about taking a drill to the car. Luckily the rivets felt most of the pain.

What I found under the trim surprised me a little. There are 2 additional holes that are about 3/4" diameter on each side. Are these original? What is their purpose? drainage? I wouldn't be too suprised if the PO did it for some hair-brained reason.

Thanks

Colin

Colin,

do you have pics of the holes?
Are they on the under side towards the front?
If so, they should have a plastic plug in them.

yes I believe they are towards the front. I will try to get pics soon. They are not plugged at the moment. any idea what they are for?