Hi,

I have an Austin 7 where the clutch linings are riveted to the pressure plate using brass semi-tubular rivets.

I am replacing the linings and there are only eight rivets to fit so I am hoping I can either peen them using just a centre-punch followed up by possibly a ball pein hammer or similar or alternatively buy a simple hand punch with the correct form to turn the end over but I've not been able to find anything at a sensible (ie cheap) price.

The rivets are 3/16" diameter "Tinsman" style so I can support the flat end on a piece of rod and the strength of the riveting probably isn't too critical as, in effect, they are there to hold the lining in place rather than take much load.

Any advice / suggestions,

John.

I’ve riveted brake linings on VWs loads of times at a main dealers using a hammer operated riveter , I’ve also done it at home using a piece of steel held in a vice as an anvil and a brake pipe flaring die to form the rivet head . Can’t remember if I used an op 1 or op2 die or both but it worked well

There must be a Austin 7 owners club with members who'd advise on this?

My old work boss had an Austin 7 based Speedy and spent most of his no work time fettling such things. I'm sure he belonged to an owners register and club as well.

What you describe sounds just fine, those rivets are still used on cars today and the punches required only a few quid with vids on youtube showing you how to do it.

ball bearing and a vice