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Old 07-20-2014, 08:53 PM   #1
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1970 31' Sovereign
Gastonia , North Carolina
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Buck or Olympic, again....

I know this point has been discussed ad nauseam, and I searched and found many threads but still need a little guidance. My shell is off while I get my frame repaired. My rear window frame is out, along with 2 lower vista view windows. My front window leaks and will probably have to come out and I might want to replace a lower endcap piece in the rear. Along with lots of other misc repairs and patches. My interior panels are out so I have all the access I need. My question is whether or not this 'justifies' the purchase and learning curve of the air hammer for buck riveting. Of course, any excuse to buy a new tool, especially air-powered, is justification enough, but I'm also thinking of practicality. I've watched Youtube videos and buck riveting looks fairly easy to learn, but none of the videos show how to do it with an 11 year old holding the bucking bar. My youngest son is probably gonna have to be my helper and I guess I'm concerned about the quality of the rivet. I'm so used to doing everything myself so the Olympic rivets just look easier. Of course, not having to buy a shaver is justification too, but I'm thinking more about practicality and skill set.

If you've been there I could use some guidance...thanks!
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Old 07-20-2014, 08:55 PM   #2
cwf
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practice with your son... it will be good bonding time.. you can do some 'test' rivets and learn together ..
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Old 07-20-2014, 09:00 PM   #3
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1972 25' Tradewind
Hopkins , Minnesota
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It has been my (unfortunate) experience, that the one operating the bucking gun is only one half of the equation. The one holding the bucking bar must be even more diligent than the one operating the gun. Otherwise, the quality of your rivets on the inside will be greatly compromised. And if that is the case....if you cannot get your 'bucker' to pay attention and do exactly as you say...then you are better off using Olympic. Many times, I yelled to my bucker.."how does that look"....and got "uh, ok..."....only to find later that numerous rivets had to be drilled out and re-bucked. It will drive you insane.....
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Old 07-20-2014, 09:48 PM   #4
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Port Hadlock , Washington
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Your son will do just fine! Don't even consider using Olympics if you don't have to.

Cheers,
steve
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