Factory Louvers- screw inserts needed...

[347togo]

Hi Gang,

Looking for help finding the screw anchors for the factory louvers for the 79-84 hatchbacks. I bought a set of NOS louvers, and just need these inserts to attach them. They appear to drill into the hatch and the 6 screws that hold the louvers down screw into them.

Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks

Bill

[gregpro50]

They are just threaded rivets. You can get them from just about any tool supplier. Drill a hole, pop them in, and bolt on the louvers.

[347togo]

Thanks gregpro!

I managed to pick up the "rivnuts" and a rivet tool at my tool supplier. Expensive, but looks like the right way to do it.

You drill the proper size hole, assemble a mandrel on the end of the rivet gun, squeeze until compressed, then un-screw and release. The rivnuts are aluminum and will not rust, and seal tight to the hatch metal.

Another spring project!

Thanks,

Bill

[gregpro50]

Its a pretty neat tool to have. Its better than the plastic sheetrock anchors I have seen other guys use.

[Boomer82gt]

I just bought the NOS louvers too. I've looked around for those "rivnuts" and can't find them. Can you take picture and post it. I was going to use sheet metal screws.


Thanks,
Joe
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/3/web/2139000-2139999/2139671_21_full.jpg

[347togo]

Joe,

I will shoot some this weekend for you

Bill

[347togo]

Joe, Some pictures:


The Kit part #

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a56/billstang/P1060008.jpg

the Rivnut Tool

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a56/billstang/P1060009.jpg

A Rivnut and the louver thumbscrew:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a56/billstang/P1060005.jpg

Pick a mandrel size:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a56/billstang/P1060006.jpg

Ready to pop (after drilling a 1/4 hole first)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a56/billstang/P1060007.jpg

Hope that helps: You wanna split the cost? I will ship it to you to use if you can't find one.......
:D

[Boomer82gt]

Thanks for posting the pics. Looks like a nice piece of equipment. Have you installed the inserts yet? Wondering how they work out? Whats that tool worth in the States? I'll be going to Buffalo in the near future and will check out the parts stores there. Canadian store don't compare to the USA. Too bad. I just have the louvers sitting on the car now. Can't wait to install them. Next to the new GT500 Shelby, the 82 GT is my favourite lookin Stang especially with the louvers. Yours looks way nice!!!

Thanks again,
Joe

[gregpro50]

You can buy the set at Eastwood. They have different kinds.

[347togo]

Hey Joe,

I have not used the tool yet- I have a conflict with the front edge of the Saleen rear spoiler and the lower edge of the louvers. I am trying to decide if I want to attempt modifying the spoiler, or get a new hatch, mount the stock spoiler and be done with it.

I really like the Saleen spoiler, it gives the car a long and lower look. The original spoiler is nice, but it makes the car look a little too stubby. All the other spoilers I have seen would have the same problem. with hitting the louvers.

Decisions, decisions......

Bill

[gregpro50]

Get the louvers that mount on the glass instead. Then you dont have to drill holes and you can keep your wing.

[gregpro50]

Here are some links for the rivet nut tools:

http://www.eastwood.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=6090&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=rivet+nut

http://www.eastwood.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=10891&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=rivet+nut

[347togo]

Thanks Greg,

I hear you on the glass mount louvers- that would be an easy decision, but all the ones I have seen in plastic and aluminum are just plain cheezy looking. My brother had an aluminum set on his Capri, and they were junk compared to my factory set. His actually blew off during a storm while parked in a lot at work! None made since have impressed me.

Thanks again for the links!

Bill