SonexBuilders.net

I am a big fan of real nutplate tools. I have one for mini nutplates. If you don't have a real jig, or are too cheap to buy one, here is an idea.

I took a #8 screw, and hacked off the head. I shortened the threads so I would not have to screw too far into the nutplate, just far enough that you get a little locking action. I ground flats on the shank so I could screw it in until it bottomed:


On your part, don't drill to clearance size yet. Drill to a nice slip fit. Then put your "tool" in, drill the first hole and cleco, then drill the second hole.

You should submit this to EAA for their magazine! Great tip.


Robbie Culver
Sonex 1517
Chicagoland
Tails and Wings complete - finishing fuselage.
N1517S reserved

Ok, just did. I have been encouraged enough times that I figured I would try it. Maybe I'll get that hat!

I still have and use this tool.


One note though - over time the rivet holes in the nutplate elongate. I recommend using the nutplate to drill a few holes then rivet it in and get a new nutplate to use for drilling.

Good tip, took me a few reads to wrap my head around your method. I used black (5/32) clecoes to center my nutplates for drilling if I recall correctly.

What are you using to set the little rivets? I have a bag of tiny countersunk solid rivets. I am having marginal success squeezing them with vice grips, but would like to find a better way. I don’t have a river gun and bucking bar. Yet.

Gordon

Gordon,
I have a hand rivet squeezer with flush sets. I would think vise grips would do a poor job.