pop rivet removal

[Brambo]

I haven't had to drill out a pop rivet yet, but Van's cautions that it can be difficult. If I have to drill one out are ther any tips/techniques I should know about before I start?

[jcoloccia]

Originally Posted by Brambo

I haven't had to drill out a pop rivet yet, but Van's cautions that it can be difficult. If I have to drill one out are ther any tips/techniques I should know about before I start?

Buy the Avery pop rivet removal tool

[bullojm1]

When I needed to drill out a #30 pop rivet, I used a #40 bit to drill out the nail, then I used a #30 bit until the top broke off. It was easy, and I didn't see any distortion in the hole afterwards.

Mike Bullock
RV-7, Wings.
http://rvplane.com

[Mel]

Pulled rivets are not normally difficult to drill out. Secret is to slightly rock the drill back and forth at the beginning so the rivet doesn't try to spin.
Mel...DAR

[PJSeipel]

Originally Posted by bullojm1

When I needed to drill out a #30 pop rivet, I used a #40 bit to drill out the nail, then I used a #30 bit until the top broke off. It was easy, and I didn't see any distortion in the hole afterwards.

Instead of trying to drill out the nail, try using one of the popped off pieces of nail and a hammer to tap out the piece still in the rivet. Then you've got a clear hole right down the center that will guide your drill.

PJ