Re-installing door "check straps"

[warrlaw1]

When removing the doors we had to drill out the rivets that held the little metal slider straps between the pillar and the door. When re-installing is there a better way than trying to pound new rivets? Has anybody used screws? Nuts and bolts? Does that detract from "originality"? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[doug]

Use pop rivets?

[Jeff_H]

I found some clevis pins that were the same as the rivets on the top but have a hole in the other end for a cotter pin. Cotter pin allows them to be removed easily if needed and no risk of a slipped hammer when pounding the rivet.



I linked a picture from the Mcmaster-carr website. You'd probably need to buy a box of them from there if a local hardware store does not have the size. Lots of choices on size.

Jeff in ND

'53 Champion Hardtop

[warrlaw1]

Thank you, Jeff! That looks like my solution. I have a fastener shop 10 miles up the highway

[mweiss]

Bill Fenessee in Nashville has the NOS rivets, if you want the original type. 615-662-5013, he has a small ad at the end of TW each month with the other vendors. thanks- m weiss

ok

[warrlaw1]

Thanks, Doug and m-weiss for the suggestions, too. I'll see if I can find the clevis pins, first and see what happens.

Dave Warren

[52 Ragtop]

I used a button head allen stainless bolt with a nylock, lock nut on it. Works great, and looks good too.

Jim

[62SY4]

I bought NOS ones from SASCO in '07 crimpped them in with a brake line flaring tool

Jon Krimm
1962 Lark Sedan

1961 Champ

[warrlaw1]

All great ideas. Going to the car tomorrow for a think session. Thanks all for the help.

[warrlaw1]

Found the perfect clevis pins. That will help as we probably have to re and re the doors a few more times to get everything lined up. You guys are the best!