Riveting forward panel skin?

[Tram]

Hey guys-

I’m contemplating a project that is 90% complete, 90% to go.

Owner estimates the only riveting/metal work left is the forward panel skin. Obviously left off for avionics install ease.

My biggest question is what sort of riveting tools would/should be required to rivet this panel in?

TIA

 

[Ralph Inkster]

That last supposed 10% will still require most of the tools contained in a basic RV tool kit as offered from Aircraft Spruce, Cleveland Tools, or a host of other tool supply companies.
More tools the better!

 

[terrye]

First, the builder's manual must be available. This shows rivet callouts and lots of other data.

Depends on if the skin has already been trial fitted and drilled or not. And what model it is. If -6/6A it is likely undrilled. If 7/8/9 it will have been pre-punched with 3/32" and 1/8" holes. Assuming it has not been trial fitted and is 7/8/9 then tools required:
1/8" and 3/32" clecos
Cleco pliers
#30 and #40 drills and drill motor
Good springback (Cleaveland) dimple dies for 1/8" and 3/32 rivets
Good -3X pneumatic rivet gun with flat rivet set
Tungsten bucking bar

Last rivets on bottom row overlapping the side skins require two people, one scrunched down next to the rudder pedals bucking the rivets
Consider installing Vans forward access panel kit. This puts cutouts just aft of the firewall which may allow the above rivets to be set from above instead of inside the footwell.