Omar Khalid
Installing plastic rivets in a BMW can be a straightforward process. Some plastic rivets are designed to expand when the centre rod is pushed in, and do not require a rivet gun. Other rivets may require a rivet gun, and different types of rivets may be needed for different parts of the car, such as the wheel arches. It is important to use the correct tools and techniques when installing plastic rivets to ensure they are secure and function properly. Some people have reported using pliers to install plastic rivets, but it is recommended to follow the factory torque settings to avoid damage.
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What You'll Learn
Removing the rear wheel is not necessary
To remove the plastic rivets, you can push the center pin in with a small Allen wrench. This will cause the rivet to collapse and come out. If you push it all the way in, it will fall out the back, so you will need to catch it. It is hard to reuse these rivets, and it is not recommended due to the frustration it may cause.
You can also try to carefully push the pin in with your hand and catch the back of the rivet. This method may allow you to reuse the rivets.
Overall, it is not necessary to remove the rear wheel when dealing with BMW plastic rivets. You can access the rivets and remove them without needing to take off the tires, which can save time and effort.
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Drilling out the rivets
Drilling out plastic rivets can be a simple task if you have the right tools. It is important to note that you should always try to avoid drilling out plastic rivets if possible, as it is easy to damage the surrounding plastic. If you must drill out the rivets, there are several methods you can use.
One method is to use a chisel and a drill. First, insert the chisel under the head of the rivet and tap it with a hammer to cut off the head. Then, use a small punch and a hammer to drive the pin part of the way through the hole, creating a starter hole for your drill bit. Choose a drill bit that is smaller than the pin and drill through the centre of it. Finally, replace the drill bit with one that is the same size as the rivet and drill it out.
Another method is to use a Dremel grinder. If you use this method, it is important to place a drop of oil or lubricant on the back of the rivet to reduce friction and heat. Drill through the rivet with a bit that is several sizes smaller first, then use the Dremel grinder to grind the edges off the back. Only do this for a few seconds at a time, and tap the rivet out from the back after each interval. If you drill or grind for too long, you may melt the plastic.
You can also use the back end of a drill bit to break off the head of the rivet. If you have centred the drill bit properly, the remains of the head may climb the bit itself. In either case, pop the remains of the shank and shop head out the back side.
To avoid damaging the plastic, you can use a towel with an ice cube on the other side of the rivet to keep it cool and prevent melting.
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Using a rivet gun
When choosing a rivet gun, consider the type of plastic rivet tool that best suits your needs. There are two main types: plier-style and handheld. Pliers-style tools resemble a pair of pliers and work by squeezing the handles together to secure or release a rivet. Handheld tools, on the other hand, have a spring-loaded mechanism that allows you to easily insert or remove a rivet with one hand.
Once you have selected the appropriate rivet gun, follow these steps to install plastic rivets:
- Ensure you have the correct size and type of plastic rivets for your specific BMW model and the particular repair or maintenance task.
- Position the rivet gun at the designated location, aligning it with the hole where the rivet needs to be installed.
- Load the rivet into the gun, following the specific instructions provided with your chosen tool.
- Squeeze the trigger or handle of the rivet gun to insert the rivet firmly into place.
- Release the trigger or handle, and verify that the rivet has been securely installed.
By using a rivet gun specifically designed for BMW plastic rivets, you can ensure a precise and secure installation, maintaining the integrity and functionality of your vehicle.
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Using plyers
Installing BMW plastic rivets can be done using pliers. Pliers are one of the most commonly used instruments for removing and installing plastic screw rivets.
To remove a plastic rivet, carefully pry the rivet out and insert it, ensuring that the rod or dowel protrudes enough to be grasped with a pair of pliers. Then, use the pliers to draw it back. For rivets with a removable centre stud, small forked trim tools can be used, and for push-pin-style rivets, pliers are also recommended.
When installing a new rivet, hold down the flat circle in the centre of the rivet with your hand while quickly drilling out the middle post. Once the middle post is removed, the rivet can be replaced.
It is important to note that there are different types of pliers designed specifically for this application, so choosing the correct type of pliers for the specific rivet is crucial.
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Using a BMW tool
Using the BMW plastic rivet tool is essential for installing plastic rivets in your BMW. This tool ensures quick and easy removal and installation of plastic rivets without damaging surrounding components. These rivets are used in various parts of a BMW, including body panels, bumpers, interior trim, and engine components.
The BMW tool is specifically designed for BMW vehicles, maintaining the car's integrity and functionality. Without the proper tool, removing plastic rivets can lead to broken or damaged pieces, requiring costly repairs. Generic tools or makeshift methods can also compromise the precision and alignment of the rivets, affecting the car's aesthetic appeal, performance, and safety.
There are two main types of BMW plastic rivet tools: plier-style and handheld. The plier-style tool resembles a pair of pliers and secures or releases a rivet by squeezing the handles together. The handheld tool, on the other hand, has a spring-loaded mechanism that allows you to easily insert or remove a rivet with just one hand.
When choosing a BMW plastic rivet tool, consider the specific type that best suits your needs. The plier-style tool offers more control and precision, while the handheld tool provides convenience and ease of use.
Additionally, look for a tool with a universal nosepiece, like the Swpeet 131Pcs Poly Rivet Gun Set, which is perfect for all sizes of plastic rivets and leaves no damage or marks on your car's trim or door panels. Having the right BMW plastic rivet tool will make maintenance and repair tasks more accessible and ensure the proper installation of rivets, saving you time and money in the long run.
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Frequently asked questions
You may need a rivet gun, depending on the type of rivet. Some rivets can be pushed in by hand, but others will require a rivet gun.
The BMW tool that does 4, 5 and 6 mm rivets is no longer available. However, McMaster-Carr offers a tool that does 4, 5 and 6 mm rivets, plus others.
No, you can install them without removing the tires. However, there is not much room for the rear wheel, so you may want to try drilling a couple of rivets before deciding if you need more space.
