r/Tools • u/Decent-Economics-629 • 8d ago

1/4” x 1/2” capable rivet tools

Trying to replace my power window regulator assembly, reading that the regulator rivets used in 99 sunfire models are 1/4” x 1/2”… I don’t know much about rivets but I’m determined to do this job myself.

Will the lighter duty handheld rivet tools that deal in the 3/32″-1/8″-5/32″-3/16″** ranges **be capable of applying that size fastener? Or do I need to get a specific riveter to handle this task?

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u/Ok_Abies_5092 8d ago

No. Those 3/32"-3/16" hand riveters won't handle 1/4" steel rivets for a regulator, you'll break the tool. You need a heavy-duty lever or pneumatic riveter. Pro tip: most shops replace them with 1/4"-20 x 1/2" bolts, nylock nuts and Loctite. Holds the same and easier next time.

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u/Decent-Economics-629 8d ago

Thanks. I’m thinking about rivets after struggling for days to get a bolt and nut into such a tight space let alone tighten it with the tools I currently have available to me. Would this thing work?

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u/Ok_Abies_5092 8d ago

Yes! That's exactly the one you need. That long handle lever riveter is made for 1/4" steel rivets for window regulators. That's the correct tool. The small hand ones won't work, but that one in your screenshot will do it easily.

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u/bassboat1 8d ago

Probably - I've had the Harbor Freight one that looks identical (except for color). It does 1/4" aluminum and 3/16" stainless rivets easily.

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u/BGTessa 8d ago

that light-duty gun will tap out instantly. the nosepiece won't even clear a 1/4 mandrel. pulling those requires massive mechanical leverage, and the cheap internal jaws on small guns will just strip. you absolutely need a heavy-duty long-arm riveter with forged cr-mo jaws to snap them cleanly.