Klik rivet nuts, threadsetter rivets, threadsets

[vhord]

Does anyone have recommendations or opinions (good, bad, or ugly) on using Klik rivet nuts, Threadsetter rivets, or Threadserts for fastening such things as clearance lights, awnings, and etc. to the outside skin of our Airstreams. It seems to me that they would be more efficient than the sheet metal screws presently used.

I know that Aerowood used nut plates on his Globetrotter but that requires some skill (although Kip makes it look easy ) and additional tools plus they require access to the inside of the outer skin.

[vhord]

In case anyone is interested here is a diagram of the installation of the Klik Rivet-Nuts:







These are available with steel or Aluminum Class 2B threads. I would certainly like to hear from anyone who has used them.

[dmac]

These are used for non-structural, blind (not easily accesible from the back side), removable, attachment on aircraft and are generally referred to by the brand name rivnut. They are also available in countersunk, where the surface must be flush.

[vhord]

Originally Posted by dmac

These are used for non-structural, blind .......attachment on aircraft .......

Would they be sufficient for attaching awnings and etc.? Seems they would have to be an inprovement over the sheet metal and lag bolts that I removed from my original awning brackets.

I will eventually purchase a new awning and brackets but probably not until after I finish the insides. However then it will be too late to gain access to the backside of the outer skin.

[craftsman]

Land Rover used a lot of Rivnuts. I wouldn't use them just through the skin of an Airstream. If they were used , say through the skin and a rib, that would offer more secure holding. Attaching an awning using rivnuts sounds risky to me. If you have access to the inside a backing plate could be used.

[Aerowood]

I've never had much luck with them (Rivnuts etc.) on thin materail as they tend to lossen up and spin, just not enough gripping tension.