To remove clutch rivets, especially those securing a clutch basket to a steel ring gear, a common method involves drilling through the rivets after marking their centers.
Removing clutch rivets often requires precision to avoid damaging surrounding components like the steel ring gear. For many clutch baskets riveted to the ring gear, the most effective way to separate them is by carefully drilling out the rivets.
Method for Removing Clutch Rivets
This process focuses on removing the rivet head or weakening the rivet shaft sufficiently for removal. Based on standard practices for removing this type of rivet, the following steps are recommended:
- Mark the Center: Use a center punch to accurately mark the exact center point of each rivet head. This prevents the drill bit from wandering when you begin drilling.
- Select the Right Bit: Choose a small drill bit, typically 1-2mm as a starting size. Drilling with a small bit first allows for more precision and can help create a pilot hole. You may need to step up to a slightly larger bit if necessary to remove the rivet head completely, but start small to control the process.
- Apply Cutting Paste: Apply some cutting paste or lubricant to the drill bit and the rivet before drilling. This helps to cool the drill bit, reduces friction, and extends the life of your bits, especially when drilling through metal rivets.
- Drill Through: Carefully drill straight through the center of the marked rivet. The goal is often to drill just enough to weaken or remove the flared head of the rivet, allowing the basket and ring gear to separate. Be careful not to drill too deeply into the underlying components.
- Separate Components: Once the rivet heads are removed or sufficiently weakened by drilling, you should be able to separate the clutch basket from the ring gear. Stubborn rivet shafts might need to be tapped out with a punch after separation.
Tools Required
Successfully removing clutch rivets using the drilling method requires a few specific tools:
| Tool | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Center Punch | To mark the precise center of the rivet | Ensures accurate drilling |
| Drill | Power tool for drilling | Corded or cordless |
| Drill Bits | Small metal drill bits (e.g., 1-2mm) | HSS or Cobalt bits recommended for metal |
| Cutting Paste | Lubricates and cools the drill bit & rivet | Prolongs bit life |
| Punch & Hammer | (Optional) To tap out rivet shafts | Use if shafts remain after separation |
This method is effective for disassembling components joined by rivets, such as clutch baskets and their ring gears, allowing for replacement or repair of individual parts.
