modelajunky
New member
I had an OK 30 shell with no parts installed. The new Ford emblem was tapped on (in) using a white rubber mallet and the area was backed up flat on a piece of 4x6.
When riveting the crankhole door, to avoid ruining a great finish, I clamped the dimpled side of the upset rivet tool in a vice. Then I carefully balanced and leveled the shell face up, with the rivet hole directly on top of the tool. I then positioned the parts (washer underneath) and using the cupped side of the rivet tool and a peening hammer, tapped the rivet together gradually until it was tight enough to NOT flop all around, yet easy enough to slide open. Check before each hammer blow to be certain the rivet is still directly on top of the tool.
The lacing was done by starting at the top of the shell, next to the base of the hood hinge mount, and working downward toward the bottom, where the new webbing was cut squarely with a very sharp mat knife. Be sure you have divided the lacing equally, as it come with no extra. then working gradually along the lacing center with a sharp awl, force holes in the fabric and insert the rivets through the webbing and the shell hole. I found it convenient to use a side cutter to split the rivet far enough to keep it in the hole, but I did scratch the finish on a few of the rivets.
It looks pretty good for a shade tree job. Good luck with yours!
When riveting the crankhole door, to avoid ruining a great finish, I clamped the dimpled side of the upset rivet tool in a vice. Then I carefully balanced and leveled the shell face up, with the rivet hole directly on top of the tool. I then positioned the parts (washer underneath) and using the cupped side of the rivet tool and a peening hammer, tapped the rivet together gradually until it was tight enough to NOT flop all around, yet easy enough to slide open. Check before each hammer blow to be certain the rivet is still directly on top of the tool.
The lacing was done by starting at the top of the shell, next to the base of the hood hinge mount, and working downward toward the bottom, where the new webbing was cut squarely with a very sharp mat knife. Be sure you have divided the lacing equally, as it come with no extra. then working gradually along the lacing center with a sharp awl, force holes in the fabric and insert the rivets through the webbing and the shell hole. I found it convenient to use a side cutter to split the rivet far enough to keep it in the hole, but I did scratch the finish on a few of the rivets.
It looks pretty good for a shade tree job. Good luck with yours!
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