Almost finished front end work...

[rebel33382]

My driver side radius arm bracket is riveted. Whats the best way/ most efficient to remove them (without a torch?) The passenger side was bolted so I got lucky!

Thanks

 

[illinoisbronco]

My driver side radius arm bracket is riveted. Whats the best way/ most efficient to remove them (without a torch?) The passenger side was bolted so I got lucky!Thanks

a drill and a punch

 

[Justshootme84]

I run into this problem alot when installing lift kits. I found the quickest way for me is to use a hand-held 4.5" grinder to grind off the heads of the rivets. You may be able to punch the remaining rivet piece thru the frame with a punch and small sledge, or you may need to drill a 'pilot' hole thru the rivet and then use the punch. Just be careful of any hardlines (brake and fuel) on the inside of the frame when drilling, and wear face protection when using the grinder. It takes me about 15-20 minutes to do all 4 rivets on one bracket. I will usually drill out the rivet hole to 1/2" and use Grade-8 bolts and hardware. You can use 7/16" bolts, but it's just easier to find the 1/2" in Gr-8 at TSC or the local parts stores. SM84

 

[rebel33382]

Think I will grind one, see how it goes, and then try drilling. Thanks guys, will let u know how it goes later on in the week!

 

[Justshootme84]

As you grind off the rivet head, you may lose sight of the rivet's center when you grind a bit of the frame. Wait a minute and let it cool, then you should see the outline of the rivet. Use a center punch to make astart for the drill bit. I use a 1/8" hardened bit to go all the way thru, then step up to a 1/4" or 5/16". When you step up, don't have to go all the way thru, just to the other side of the frame. Then take the big punch and BFH and give it a few good whacks. If there's any piece of the rivet head left, it will be much harder to break it loose. Once you get a rivet or two out, you can whack on the bracket and it will often take the rest of the rivets out that you've ground off flush with the frame, JSM84

 

[crazyhorse85]

Grinding works great...you might also try the way i used...take a cut-off wheel and cut an x into the rivet head and either use a air hammer or just a good ol fashion cold chisel and they come right out.....Be sure to wear eye protection... B)

 

[BB33's]

crazy horse has the right idea. on my '95 the driver bracket was oblonged and I had to replace it. after 15 minutes of drilling out ONE rivet I used the cut off wheel and Air chisel and that was it.

 

[rebel33382]

will I have enough room to get in there witth a dewalt 3.5" grinder? How did you support the radius arm after you punched the rivets out?

 

[Justshootme84]

it's tight, but helps to remove the wheel on the side you're working on. Just put a jack under the axle beam, take the tire off, and put jack stands under the frame for safety (in case the jack slips off or gives out). there is a body mount bracket nearby that can get in your way, too, but not enough to stop you. I've tried the method of cutting a cross/ plus in the rivet head then using the air chisel. it will work, but the vibration loosens alot of dirt from the frame and rains down all over you. Plus, I kinda like making sparks with the grinder...JSM84