Closed end rivets

[Wishin I was Fishin]

I have read others mention the use of closed end blind rivets on this forum in the past. Just was wondering how effective this really is below the water line. Who has done it and how has it held up long term. Couple of rivet companies advertise "water or vapor resistant" but not "water proof". That's not too encouraging, I really only want to do this once. But if it really works it sounds like a great way to go.

 

[gcboat]

Re: Closed end rivets

O.K. What are you trying to do?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Closed end rivets

Two proven rivet methods.... Use Gluvit or use 3m5200 and coat the rivet before you install it. If you can get to the repair from the inside then use more gluvit. Leak fixed.

No one will guarantee the rivets ...... people would blame the company and the company will blame the end user. No win situation.

 

[iwombat]

Re: Closed end rivets

I've used 'em below the waterline w/ a good dose of gluvit tossed in. They work great.

 

[Wishin I was Fishin]

Re: Closed end rivets

What am I doing? I ask myself that very question often. And the answer is pretty long on this project. I have a 17' Blue Fin Center Console that I bought a few years ago. Come to find out it would take on some significant water while fishing. So, it's been in dry dock for the last couple years (my garage) At this point I have stripped out all the interior and the plywood deck. After I did this I also found corroded transom alum inner skin and gooey wood. So I will also be replacing the transom inner and plywood. I will also be fixing the leaky rivets by drilling them out and replacing them. Then I will use some gluvit on the inside. Like I said I only want to do this once.
Since the electrical was completely shot when I bought it I will then replace all the lights, bilge pumps, fishfinder, etc... and wiring. Maybe even add a couple electric downriggers Then.. I will be rebuilding the console and seating throughout. It's gonna take a bit of money but I keep reminding my wife it's much cheaper than spending 30k on a new Lund.
I'm sure you all will be seeing some pics and questions and pleas for help very soon.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Closed end rivets

Sounds like a great project. One can of gluvit will do quite a bit of seams and rivets.

 

[Islandlure]

Re: Closed end rivets

I just repaired my jon boat with some aluminum rivets and 3M 5200, and it works great. I use my boat everyday on the ocean and in some good chop. I havent had any leaks from them at all. I also coat a layer of gluvit on the bottom of my hull before I painted it.