Rivet Size For Snowmobile Belly Pan Repairs

Snowmobile belly pans can be damaged by obstacles in the snow or any impact to the plastic or aluminium shield. When repairing a belly pan, it is important to consider the size of the rivets to be used. The size of the rivets will depend on the extent of the damage and the material of the belly pan. For minor cracks in plastic belly pans, small holes are drilled and cable ties are used to lace up the crack. Larger cracks or holes in the belly pan may require a patch of aluminium to be placed over the damaged area and secured with screws or pop rivets. The size of the rivets will depend on the thickness of the material being fastened and the grip range required. It is recommended to use aluminium or steel rivets for snowmobile belly pans, with some people preferring aluminium to avoid corrosion.

Belly pan repair with pop rivets

Repairing a belly pan with pop rivets is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail and the use of appropriate tools. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before beginning the repair, it is important to thoroughly inspect the belly pan and identify the extent of the damage. Look for cracks, holes, or any other type of damage. If the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the entire belly pan. However, small cracks or holes can often be repaired with pop rivets.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Materials

To repair a belly pan with pop rivets, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Pop rivets (choose the appropriate size and material, such as aluminium or steel)
• Power drill
• Drill bits (in appropriate sizes)
• Plastic scraper
• Plastic razor blade
• Aircraft remover
• Hammer
• Anti-seize lubricant
• Sealant

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

If there is any old sealant or insulation on the belly pan, remove it carefully. Use a plastic scraper to break the seal, and then use a plastic razor blade and aircraft remover to clean the surface thoroughly. This step is important to ensure that the new rivets will adhere properly.

Step 4: Drill Out the Old Rivets

Using a power drill with an appropriate-sized drill bit, carefully drill out the broken or damaged rivets. This process can be tricky, and it is important to take your time to avoid damaging the surrounding material. Drill out one rivet at a time, and be prepared for aluminium pieces to blast in your direction. Wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, to safeguard yourself during this step.

Step 5: Prepare the New Rivets

Before inserting the new pop rivets, apply anti-seize lubricant to them. This will help ensure that the rivets remain secure and do not corrode over time. It is also important to choose the correct size and material for the rivets. Aluminium rivets are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while steel rivets offer greater strength.

Step 6: Install the New Rivets

Insert the new pop rivets into the drilled holes. Use a hammer or other appropriate tool to flatten the stems of the rivets and secure them in place. Make sure to apply sufficient pressure to ensure that the rivets are tight and will not come loose.

Step 7: Seal and Insulate

Once the new rivets are in place, seal the belly pan with an appropriate sealant. Additionally, consider insulating the belly pan to provide further protection. Allow the sealant and insulation to cure completely before using the snowmobile.

Tips and Tricks:

• If the holes in the belly pan are elongated, consider using fender washers or larger pop rivets for a more secure fit.
• Always wear appropriate safety gear when working with power tools and sharp metal pieces.
• If you are unsure about the type or size of rivet to use, consult a professional or a hardware store specialist.
• Take your time and work in a well-ventilated area to ensure a safe and effective repair.

Belly pan repair with plastic welding kit

A plastic welding kit can be used to repair a snowmobile's belly pan. The kit, which costs around $100 to $150, includes a video that teaches you how to use it. It's important to match the welding rod to the plastic you're working with. For example, if the belly pan is TPO, you'll need a TPO welding rod. You can also use metal mesh and melt it into the plastic to bridge cracks or holes.

Before you start welding, ensure the surface is clean and roughened for the best results. If you don't want to weld, you can use pop rivets to attach a new piece of sheet metal or tin over the damaged area. Another temporary solution is to drill a small hole at each end of the crack to prevent it from spreading further.

Belly pan repair with sheet metal and rivets

Belly pans are typically made of metal or plastic. If your snowmobile belly pan is damaged, you can repair it with sheet metal and rivets as a temporary solution. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Assess the Damage: Determine the extent of the damage to your belly pan. Is it ripped, wrinkled, discoloured, cracked, or torn? If it's just a clean crack, you can try to rivet it back together.
• Drill Holes: Drill a small hole at each end of the crack to prevent it from spreading further. This technique, known as "stop drilling," is commonly used in aircraft repairs. Ensure the holes are at least 1/8-inch in diameter to effectively stop the crack.
• Prepare the Sheet Metal: Cut a piece of sheet metal to fit over the damaged area of the belly pan. You can use a new piece of metal or, if you have one available, an old piece that you can cut to size.
• Rivet the Sheet Metal in Place: Use pop rivets to attach the sheet metal over the damaged area. Make sure you have a good-quality rivet gun that can pull the rivets tight. You may need an air riveter for larger rivets.
• Consider Additional Support: If the damage is more extensive, you may need to use multiple pieces of sheet metal and additional support. Cut and shape the metal as needed to fit the contours of the belly pan.
• Seal and Insulate: Depending on the location and severity of the repair, you may need to seal and insulate the repaired area. This is especially important if the belly pan is exposed to harsh weather conditions.

When choosing rivets, consider the size, material, and grip range. For snowmobile belly pans, 3/16-inch rivets are commonly used. You can choose between steel and aluminium rivets, each with its own advantages: steel rivets are stronger and less likely to loosen over time, while aluminium rivets are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easier to drill out. Ensure you select the appropriate rivet length and grip range for the thickness of the materials you are fastening together.

For a more permanent solution, consider using a plastic welding kit to seamlessly repair the belly pan. This method will be stronger and less visible, but it requires specialised equipment and may be more costly.

Belly pan repair with zip ties

A snowmobile belly pan is used to keep snow from getting into the engine compartment. The belly pan can be damaged by obstacles in the snow or any impact to the plastic or aluminum shield. While a damaged belly pan can often be fixed, if it is too damaged, it must be replaced.

If your snowmobile belly pan has a minor crack in a plastic belly pan, you can repair it with zip ties. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Drill small holes about 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch, depending on the size of the zip ties, about half an inch from the crack on both sides. Make the holes as small as possible, ensuring they are still big enough for a zip tie to fit through.
• Take a zip tie that is long enough to reach from one side of the crack to the other and back. Thread it through one of the holes from the top of the belly pan to the bottom.
• Thread the zip tie back up through the matching hole on the other side of the crack. Put the tapered end of the zip tie through the eye of the zip tie and pull it tight. Make sure it is secure and won't come undone.
• Repeat this process until you have laced the holes along the length of the crack, keeping the fastened ends of the zip ties on the top.

This repair method is a temporary solution until you can replace the belly pan. It is important to note that the zip ties may not hold up under high stress or impact, so it is crucial to be cautious and monitor the repair between rides.

For larger cracks or cracks in an aluminum belly pan, you may need to use a different repair method, such as using tin snips to cut a piece of aluminum to cover the crack and fastening it with screws or pop rivets.

Belly pan replacement

The belly pan of a snowmobile is crucial for preventing snow from entering the engine compartment. Obstacles in the snow or any impact to the plastic or aluminium shield can cause damage to the belly pan. While minor damage can be fixed, extensive damage may require a replacement.

Steps for Belly Pan Replacement:

• Assess the Damage: Before beginning the replacement process, it is important to thoroughly inspect the belly pan to determine the extent of the damage. Look for cracks, holes, or any other type of damage. Take measurements and note the locations of any damaged areas.
• Gather Materials and Tools: You will need a new belly pan that matches your snowmobile's make and model. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a drill, rivet gun, tin snips, and any other relevant equipment.
• Remove the Old Belly Pan: Start by drilling out the rivets that hold the old belly pan in place. Carefully drill each rivet, being mindful not to damage surrounding components. Once the rivets are removed, gently pry and detach the old belly pan from the snowmobile, taking note of how it is attached and any additional fasteners or attachments.
• Prepare the New Belly Pan: Before installing the new belly pan, clean the area where it will be attached to ensure a secure fit. If needed, apply a suitable sealant or caulk to create a tight seal between the belly pan and the snowmobile's body.
• Install the New Belly Pan: Position the new belly pan in place, ensuring it aligns correctly with the snowmobile's frame. Secure the belly pan using the appropriate rivets and your rivet gun. Ensure that all rivets are fastened securely and that the belly pan is firmly attached.
• Test and Inspect: Once the new belly pan is installed, carefully inspect your work to ensure that all rivets are secure and that there are no gaps or openings. Take the snowmobile for a test run to ensure the belly pan is functioning as intended, keeping snow out of the engine compartment.

Choosing the Right Rivets:

When it comes to selecting the right rivets for your belly pan replacement, there are a few options to consider:

• Aluminium Rivets: These are commonly used in snowmobile repairs and are relatively easy to drill out. They are suitable for cosmetic and non-load-bearing applications.
• Steel Rivets: Steel rivets are stronger and more durable than aluminium ones. They are ideal for load-bearing applications and are less likely to loosen over time.
• Rivet Size: The size of the rivet will depend on the specific application. For instance, 3/16-inch rivets are commonly used for various parts of a snowmobile, including the belly pan. However, it is important to measure the exact size required for your replacement.
• Rivet Type: There are different types of rivets available, such as pop rivets, solid rivets, and interlock Z rivets. Each type has unique characteristics and application methods, so be sure to choose the appropriate type for your repair.

By following these steps and choosing the right rivets, you can successfully replace your snowmobile's belly pan, ensuring it is secure and functional for your next adventure.

Frequently asked questions