I wanted to share some success I've had with a small inexpensive tool from Avery.
http://www.averytools.com/prodinfo.asp?number=5012
Here's the link. Like many other builders I had trouble setting the solid AN470 rivets that hold the leading edge to the spar. After a search on the VAF I found a Vans approved method of using pull rivets ( LP4-3,4) to attach the ribs to the spar. You have to grind the face of a cheap rivet puller to get close enough to the rib. Even then when you try to pull the rivet your still at an angle. This little tool from Avery's allows you to bend the stem of the rivet and still set it with the base of the rivet flush with the spar. I was able to pull all of the rivets in about 20 minutes and they are flush to the surface. I shared my success with Bob Avery and the tool is originally designed for the RV12. A slight mod to bring the hole closer to the edge is needed for the 7, 8, 9. He said he would be willing to gen up some with a closer hole to the edge for those builders.
Worth a look see IMHO. Sorry no pics. I haven't figured out how to post from my iPhone yet.
http://www.averytools.com/prodinfo.asp?number=5012
Here's the link. Like many other builders I had trouble setting the solid AN470 rivets that hold the leading edge to the spar. After a search on the VAF I found a Vans approved method of using pull rivets ( LP4-3,4) to attach the ribs to the spar. You have to grind the face of a cheap rivet puller to get close enough to the rib. Even then when you try to pull the rivet your still at an angle. This little tool from Avery's allows you to bend the stem of the rivet and still set it with the base of the rivet flush with the spar. I was able to pull all of the rivets in about 20 minutes and they are flush to the surface. I shared my success with Bob Avery and the tool is originally designed for the RV12. A slight mod to bring the hole closer to the edge is needed for the 7, 8, 9. He said he would be willing to gen up some with a closer hole to the edge for those builders.
Worth a look see IMHO. Sorry no pics. I haven't figured out how to post from my iPhone yet.