Frame crossmember rivets??

[bckinblk]

I was under my k-5 and noticed that I busted 2 more factory rivets .Would it be better to drill out all of them and replace with bigger grade 8 bolts ??or weld them together?? I was thinking of using 1/2 inch bolts has anyone done this?? does it solid up the truck??? thanks for any info in advance.

 

[mudhog]

drill them out and use the grade 8's and forget about it /forums/images/icons/smile.gif

 

[JK5]

Yah...I agree....and use locking style NUTS......RED Lock-tite and You'll never have a worry!! /forums/images/icons/wink.gif

 

[blk87K5]

I would definately suggest you use ny-lock (sp?) nuts. Won't have to worry about them being tight anymore.

 

[BadDog]

I have drilled out and replaced most of the rivets in my rig now. Mostly due to getting rid of things I don't need, or moving things like the suspension and cross members. I replaced them with 1.25" x 0.375 G5 bolts, flat washers, split washers, and nylock nuts. These are a perfect "bolt on" /forums/images/icons/laugh.gif (i.e. fits the rivet hole exactly) replacement for the rivets with double or triple layers of steel to go through. I did not Lock-Tite mine but, if I knew it was not going to be moved, and it was a daily driver, I would probably add that just for piece of mind.

 

[79Beast]

Grade 5 or 8 will be fine. You can use a 3/8, but it would be better to drill out the hole for a TIGHT fit with either 7/16 or 1/2 bolts. I prefer pinch lock nuts, I have NOT had good luck with ny-locks. Flat washers are also a good idea, especially on the nut side. I would check the torque on them after running them for a month or so, then locktite 'em.

 

[m j]

that is what mine is done with.
I have heard them refered to as 'stovers' nuts
last frame was welded