6 Steps Guide on Replacing Aluminum Boat Rivets With Bolts

Are you tired of your old, leaky rivets? Are you looking for a more robust and easier-to-install fastening option? If so, you should consider replacing your aluminum boat rivets with bolts.

Table of Contents

• What Type of Aluminum Rivets is Used in a Boat?
  • Solid Rivets 
  • Pop Rivets 
• What Kind of Bolt-head to Use on a Boat? 
• Process of Replacing Aluminum Boat Rivets With Bolts
  • Step 1 – Drilling out the Rivets
  • Step 2 – Cleaning up the Holes
  • Step 3 – Measuring the New Bolts 
  • Step 4 – Applying the Glue 
  • Step 5 – Inserting the Bolts
  • Step 6 – Tighten the Bolts and Nuts
• Why Do People Replace Aluminum Boat Rivets With Bolts?
• Bolt vs.Rivet: What’s the Difference?
  • Rivets (aluminum)
  • Bolts 
• Conclusion

What Type of Aluminum Rivets is Used in a Boat?

There are two types of rivets used in aluminum boats; solid rivets and pop rivets.

Solid Rivets

Solid rivets are a permanent fastening option for joining two pieces of metal together. It cannot be removed once they are installed.

These are the most vital rivet type and are less likely to leak. However, these are more difficult to install and require special tools.

Pop Rivets

These rivets are easy to install and provide a stronghold. However, they are not as strong as solid rivets and can be prone to leaks.

These are used to make high-strength joints in various materials, including metals, plastics, wood, metal sheet, and leather. 

What Kind of Bolt-head to Use on a Boat?

Many different types of bolts can be used on a boat. The most common type of bolt is the truss head bolt. This type of bolt has a broad, flat head that is easy to grip. The button head bolt is another common type of bolt. This type of bolt has a small, round head that is easy to grip. The pan head bolt also uses.

Process of Replacing Aluminum Boat Rivets With Bolts

Step 1 – Drilling out the Rivets

Your first task will be to remove the aluminum boat rivets. There are several ways to remove it. But the drill method is the best option, in my opinion. It is unlikely to damage the bottom surface of the rivets.

Use a metal drill bit to drill out the old rivets. To use a 10.5 mm drill bit set the drill bit to the appropriate size. Use a 12 mm drill bit for a slightly larger hole.

Step 2 – Cleaning up the Holes

After you have drilled out the rivets, you need to clean up the holes. It is necessary to ensure that the new bolts fit snugly into the holes. Use a wire brush to remove any debris and burrs from the pits.

Step 3 – Measuring the New Bolts

Now you need to measure the new bolts. The length of the bolts will depend on the thickness of the material you are bolting together. In most cases, the bolts should be about 25 mm longer than the thickness of the material. This will ensure that the bolts are long enough to go through the material and be secured with a nut on the other side.

(If need: Once you have measured the new bolts, you need to cut them to the appropriate length. Use a hacksaw or a power saw to cut the bolts. Make sure that the cuts are clean and straight.)

Step 4 – Applying the Glue

Now you need to apply some glue (polyurethane adhesives) to the threads of the bolts. This will help to prevent the bolts from coming loose over time. Apply a generous amount of glue to the threads. This will help to prevent leaks.

Step 5 – Inserting the Bolts

Now you can insert the bolts into the holes. Make sure that the bolts are inserted all the way into the holes.

Step 6 – Tighten the Bolts and Nuts

Finally, it would be best if you used tools to tighten the bolts and nuts. Use a wrench or a socket wrench to tighten the nuts. Make sure that the nuts are tight enough so that they will not come loose. Also, Do not overtighten the nuts, as this can strip the threads. Repeat this process for all of the bolts.

Why Do People Replace Aluminum Boat Rivets With Bolts?

There are several reasons why people replace aluminum boat rivets with bolts. 

1. Bolts are also easier to install and remove than rivets.
2. Bolts provide a stronger hold than rivets.
3. Bolts are less likely to leak than rivets.

Bolt vs.Rivet: What’s the Difference?

The fasteners each have their characteristics. In their respective fields, these are the best. Below are a few of the features of each.

Rivets (aluminum)

1. A rivet is a permanent mechanical fastener.
2. Rivets are installed using a rivet gun or hammer.
3. Rivets cannot be removed once they are installed.
4. Rivets are used to join two pieces of metal together.

Bolts

1. A bolt is a fastener used to join two or more pieces of metal together.
2. Bolts are installed using a wrench or socket wrench.
3. Bolts are made of metal and available in various sizes, structures, and materials.
4. Bolts can be removed and reused.

Conclusion

If you are looking to replace the aluminum boat rivets in your boat, then bolts are the best option. They are more robust and less likely to leak than rivets. Bolts are also easier to install and remove. If you have any questions or experiences to share, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!