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Gobi rack install gone bad

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Old 05-05-2012, 09:37 AM
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Default Gobi rack install gone bad

I was in the process of installing the front rack across the windshield when one of the nuts came loose on the drivers side corner trim and just turned in place. Chrysler installed square nuts in a thin metal channel and the channel has flared out no longer holding the nut. I had trouble getting the original screw out presumable for the same reason. Anybody know of a good way to secure a nut into or behind the sheet metal where there is very little access? You can see the square headed nut leaning up against the metal below the hole in question.
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Old 05-05-2012, 09:46 AM
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You can try one of those rivet nuts. They work similar to dry wall anchors. That is, they have a small diameter to go through the hole and then expand after inserted.

Only problem is that you need a special tool (actually a pop-rivet plier) to install it. The difference is that the core that pulls and expands the rivet nut is threaded. You should be able to find those in places such as Fastenall and the likes.
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Last edited by Sahara_Maverick; 05-05-2012 at 09:49 AM.
Old 05-05-2012, 09:59 AM
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Originally Posted by Sahara_Maverick
You can try one of those rivet nuts. They work similar to dry wall anchors. That is, they have a small diameter to go through the hole and then expand after inserted.

Only problem is that you need a special tool (actually a pop-rivet plier) to install it. The difference is that the core that pulls and expands the rivet nut is threaded. You should be able to find those in places such as Fastenall and the likes.
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Thanks that should work and I have pop rivet guns.
Old 05-05-2012, 10:30 AM
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Originally Posted by 4wdave

Thanks that should work and I have pop rivet guns.

Cool! Just try to use washers to reinforce the thin sheet metal.



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