VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 window regulator roller/rivet

Hello everyone,
I just got 8 new window regulator roller/rivet 5/16" kits, Filling Station item nmbr FS-383A for all my door glass assemblies (1940 MDSS). I've never riveted before so I don't know what tool I should use to flare the 5/16" end of the rivet. I already messed one up using incorrect tools! What do I need to buy and what is the best way to get this rivet nice and snug.

Thanks!
Curt

Hi Curt,

I enjoy rebuilding regulators. You can either send me all yours and I will rebuild them, or I can send you a DVD that you can watch and do the work yourself. Give me a call.

Hi Mike.
My window regulators work fine. I cleaned all 4 and lubricated them. The original fiber rollers are missing or very worn. I got 8 kit assemblies and I just need to figure out how to flare the rivet (that is part of the roller/rivet kit) without ruining it. I used the opposite end of an old drill to tap it down (flare) and it worked but split and looks pretty awful. There must be some special tool or punch that I need to flare the hollow area of the rivet properly. This rivet is not like an aviation type of rivet. I tried to contact the Filling Station today but they were closed due holiday. I'll contact them Monday.
I'm currently working on all internal door components, window channels, sashes, and new door glass installation. It's a slow go, but it's going okay.

Thanks,
Curt

rivet tool
This is what the proper tool looks like.

However, If you take a 5/16 rod or drill bit and round over the end where it looks like the center of the tool. Use it by tapping it in the hollow of the rivet until it start to flair out. Then move up to a 3/8 rod/drill rounded over bit and continue the flair. Once well faired take a socket 3/8 or so and place on top of the flair and tap down until snug. Worked for me. Go slow and good luck.

Plan B. I have the HT 176 tool. It is for a 1/4 but it will do the 5/16 if you want to borrow it. Will mail to you if you want?

That's exactly what I need, a "hand rivet clincher".
So that's what this rivet is called; a tubular rivet.

Thanks for offering to send yours to me but I'll see if I can buy one locally first.

Thanks for the very helpful information Ruscar!

Curt

Hi, I have a 38 master two door sedan which I'm rebuilding. Is there a left and right side window regulator for my rear quarter windows. Thanks

Yes is the answer to Mark's question. Each side is specific to the side of the car. Front door regulators are also a different size than the back door regulators or coupe/sedan rear window regulators.

I have begun a new post on how to rebuild 41-48 regulators. It is in the Mr. Goodwrench - Technical forum under the heading Body - Sheet Metal Painting & Wood. Late tomorrow I will finish the posts with information on lubricating and refurnishing the clutch on the shaft where the handle is attached.

Thanks, Mike