Expert Tips for Using Lockbolt Tools & Rivet Nut Guns Like A Pro
Before getting into the tips, it's important to understand lockbolt tools and how they work. A Lock Bolt Fastener System is a patented cold-formed fastening technology used widely in the automotive industry, especially for truck body repairs.
Lockbolts are self-locking fasteners that create a tight, secure joint when installed with the appropriate Lock Bolt Tool. They have a collar that swages outward during installation, gripping the panels tightly once installed. This gripping action eliminates the need for nuts and ensures a stronger, more durable bond compared to traditional nuts and bolts.
Some key advantages of the lockbolt fastening system include:
One-piece construction for a clean, smooth finish without nuts
Self-locking design that doesn't require locking nuts or threading
Superior holding power and resistance to vibration
Can be removed and reinstalled multiple times
Reduces assembly time significantly compared to nuts
The most common type is the Magna-Grip lockbolt from Alcoa, which features a patented swaging collar that expands outward during installation for a tight, wrinkle-free grip. These are ideal for truck body repairs requiring high strength and vibration resistance.
Now that we understand the basics of the lockbolt system, here are some expert tips for using your lockbolt tool to its full potential.
Choosing the Right Lock Bolt Tool Kit
When it comes to choosing a lockbolt tool, the most important factors are the application and desired diameter range. For truck cab repairs, a kit with capabilities of 3/16" to 1/4" diameters is ideal.
One of the top choices for truck cab work is the RAT640 Complete Truck Cab Kit from Reliable Air Tools. This Lock Bolt Tool installs up to 1/4" Magna-Grip lockbolts and includes the most common nose types:
3/16" & 1/4" Magna-Grip noses for body panels
3/16" C6 nose for chrome grille fasteners
3/16" – 1/4" Magna-Lok blind fastener nose
The pneumatic/hydraulic design provides smooth operation and 7,800 lbs of pull capacity. It's durable, affordable, and suitable for truck shops of all sizes.
For trailer and heavier truck cab work, a 3/8" capacity tool like the RAT932 Standard and Best Truck Cab Kit is a better option. Its higher 5,500lb pull rating easily handles larger fasteners.
No matter the kit, always choose a name brand tool like Reliable, Gage Bilt, or Huck for quality components that last. Avoid unknown Chinese replicas that can fail prematurely.
Preparing Your Lock Bolt Tool
Before any installation, take some time to prepare your lockbolt tool:
Check oil levels and top off with Dexron III/VI ATF fluid if needed. Low oil causes premature wear.
Inspect air lines and connectors for cracks or leaks and replace them as needed. Leaks reduce tool function.
Ensure air pressure is set between 70-100 PSI for optimal operation. Higher pressure risks stripping fasteners.
Test installation of a few sample fasteners outside the vehicle to ensure the tool functions properly.
Clean nose and pull rod surfaces with a lint-free cloth to remove debris or residue. Contamination hinders the swaging process.
Consider applying a thin film of grease or oil to plastic nosings to ease installs and prevent nose damage over time.
Taking these simple preparation steps beforehand pays dividends in smooth, accurate installations later. A well-maintained tool simply works better.
Mastering Proper Installation Technique
Once prepared, it's time to start installing. Proper technique is key to professional-looking results every time:
Position the panel and start the fastener by hand before engaging the tool. Spinning under pressure risks stripping knurling.
Fully insert fastener, leaving 1/16" extended beyond the panel for the swaging room. Short fasteners lead to an improper joint.
Center nose fully around fastener threads while maintaining a perpendicular angle to panels. Off-center installs cause crooked joints.
Apply steady pressure through full stroke until audible click signals swaging is complete. Inconsistent pressure results in loose or incomplete joints.
Inspect the installation and try twisting by hand. Properly swaged fasteners show no rotation and feel fully seated.
Clean away excess extruded metal as needed. Shavings left behind invite corrosion if not addressed.
With a little practice, flawless installations become second nature. Taking your time produces long-lasting, professional results that make your work stand out.
Choosing the Right Nose for the Job
As important as the main tool is, the nose does the actual swaging. It's important to choose the right nose for each application:
Standard Independent Nose - For thinner steel panels up to 22-gauge. Offers precision but cleans shavings poorly.
Unitized Nose - An all-in-one design good for a wider gauge range and deep recesses. Cleans better but is less accurate.
Blind Rivet Nose - Installs closed-end blind rivets from 3/16" to 1/4" diameters used in hard-to-reach areas.
C6 Nose - Specifically designed for lockbolts with chromed exteriors like grilles. Preserves the chrome finish during installs.
Keeping a variety of quality noses on hand lets you quickly adapt to any job. Consider OEM noses from Gage Bilt or Huck for best fitments.
Knowing which nose is best suited to the material thickness and location optimizes strength, appearance, and job efficiency. Take nose selection as seriously as choosing the main tool.
Tips for Rivet Nut Installation
Rivet nuts serve a similar fastening purpose to a lock bolt tool but require nuts for securement. Here are some tips for professional rivet nut gun usage:
Choose the proper size blind rivet nut for the application's thread size, thickness, and material type.
Load rivet nuts securely and align them into the nose barrel to avoid binding during firing.
Position the nose perpendicular and fully engaged around the rivet before pulling the trigger. Off-center crimps weaken holding power.
Verify the full seating of the rivet cap after installation with no gaps. Half seals invite failure from vibration.
Install matching thread-forming or thread-cutting screws promptly after for maximum strength.
Consider threaded inserts for hollow areas prone to stripping. Their multiple-thread engagement adds resilience.
With practice, rivet nuts become just as quick and neat an installation as lockbolts. The key is using the right accessories and installation procedures tailored for each task.
Investing in the Right Equipment Pays Off
Owning high-quality equipment plays a big role in the success and reputation of any auto body business:
A Lock Bolt Tool Kit from industry leaders like Reliable, Gage Bilt, and Huck last for years of heavy use with proper maintenance.
Premium pneumatic/hydraulic tools function smoothly job after job with less downtime between services.
Warrantied accessories like noses, offset tools, and rivet nuts ensure consistent, hassle-free performance.
Custom trailer packages with bulk fastener storage and air tool cabinets keep multi-site operations running efficiently.
While upfront investment is higher, the durable American-crafted tools pay for themselves through fewer replacement costs, higher throughput, and better reputation from quality results in the long term.
Body professionals serious about long-term success choose the same tools as top OEMs based on strength, reliability, and accurate installation capabilities proven over decades of real-world industrial use. In the shop, your tool reputation matches your work reputation, so choose carefully.
Closing Thoughts
In summary, adopting expert lockbolt techniques taught here elevates any auto body business by increasing efficiency, output, and professional appearance through:
Choosing the right Lock Bolt Tool Kit matched to common fastener sizes
Preparing tools, maintaining clean equipment, and stocking quality nose options
Mastering ideal installation methods, delivering precision assemblies efficiently
Gaining versatility through auxiliary tools in solving complex attachment problems
Implementing best practices to maintain reliability between jobs
Owning premium pneumatic tools and custom fitting kits for fleet use
Armed with these lockbolt pro tips, experienced truck repair shops can implement techniques that take projects to the next level. For new technicians, it provides a comprehensive introduction to the industry standard.
Proper use of lock bolting tools sets installers apart, streamlines panel replacement and accelerates a shop's reputation. With experience, tricky installations become opportunities to showcase hard-earned mastery.
For years, Reliable Air Tools has delivered the most dependable lockbolt solutions backed by industry-leading support. Their affordability remains unchanged, while engineering has never stopped improving. Contact them to discuss creating a custom truck cab installation package tailored to any fleet's needs.
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