--- title: Rivets, Fasteners and Torque description: Rivets, Fasteners and Torque. Builder questions and answers from Van's Builder Technical Support. --- [Skip to content](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/rivets-fasteners-and-torque#main-content) English Show submenu for translations ![](https://support.vansaircraft.com/hs-fs/hubfs/vans_icon_orange.png?width=58&height=48&name=vans_icon_orange.png) Open main navigation Close main navigation - English Show submenu for translations - [Contact us](mailto:info@vansaircraft.com) [Contact us](mailto:info@vansaircraft.com) How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Van's Aircraft Knowledge Base](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base?hsLang=en) 2. [General](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en) 3. [Rivets and Fasteners](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#rivets-and-fasteners) October 5, 2026 # Rivets, Fasteners and Torque ## Builder Tech Support answers on rivets, fasteners and torque This article collects Builder Technical Support answers on rivets, fasteners and torque. ### Riveting Wings: Blind Rivet Substitution, Bucking Access, and Damaged Parts Closing wings raises the same questions over and over: can pulled rivets substitute for driven rivets in hard-to-reach areas, what Cherry Max sizes work, and what to do when a part arrives damaged or contaminated. This article summarizes Van's guidance from common builder support cases. ### Aluminum Chips Trapped Between Riveted Skins On QB and pre-assembled wing components, aluminum splinters from manufacturing have occasionally been trapped between two skins already joined by blind rivets. This is not acceptable on a tension joint. The correct repair is to remove the affected rivets one at a time, clean the area thoroughly, and replace each rivet. Document with photos and contact Tech Support if the contamination is widespread. ### Information to Include - Builder/serial number and aircraft model. - Plans page and rivet callout. - Photos of the rivet line in question and your bucking access. - Specific rivet substitution you are proposing. ### Overview If you're working through an RV airframe kit, fasteners, rivets, and hole questions come up constantly. This article covers the most frequent questions Van's Builder Tech Support sees on rivets, hardware, hole prep, and what to do when something doesn't go to plan. ### Missing or short-counted hardware Hardware bags occasionally come up short — torn bag, missed pack, or a backordered bag delivered with the wrong quantity. The fix is straightforward: - Inventory your kit against the packing list as soon as you receive it. - If you find a discrepancy (missing screws, platenuts, washers, or short-counted rivets like AN470AD6-6 or AN426AD4-6), email Builder Tech Support with your builder/customer number, the bag number, part numbers, and quantities needed. - Photos of the packing list and the as-received bag speed up the replacement. ### Builder Tech Support notes Hardware comes only in fixed lengths while stack-up thickness varies, so you may need to change rivet or bolt length or add a washer to get a proper fit; if a bolt is too long, add a washer under the head or nut. Plan-called rivet lengths are engineering predictions and can be affected by manufacturing variance, so verify you are getting a proper shop head rather than following the callout blindly. Dimpling always enlarges a hole, so match-drilling or reaming with a #41 (3/32 inch) before dimpling helps keep holes from growing too large. ### Overview Oversized rivet holes, lost edge distance, and questions about Van's "undersized holes" laser-cut replacement parts are recurring topics. This article walks through the standard guidance. ### Stepping up from AD3 to AD4 when edge distance won't allow If you mis-drilled holes for AN470AD3-3.5 rivets to #30 (which would suit AN470AD4 rivets), but the location's edge distance won't accept a 1/8" rivet, the part must be replaced. Engineering does not approve AD4 rivets in AD3-spec locations where edge distance is marginal. The cost of part replacement is small compared to the structural margin at that location. ### F-757-T gusset edge distance (RV-7/RV-8) The F-757-T gusset is a common edge-distance trouble spot. Drill carefully using the F-721B as a hole-placement guide before upsizing to AD4. If you end up under 1D edge distance after upsize, contact Builder Tech Support before riveting — the standard fix may be a doubler or a replacement gusset. For case-specific oversize-hole or edge-distance questions, contact Van's Builder Tech Support with your builder number, the plans page, photos of the affected location, and a brief description of how the situation occurred. ### 1. Identify the parts Compare your inventory against the published Laser-Cut Parts (LCP) list. Build date stamps on individual parts (e.g., 10/13/22) can help confirm whether a specific part came from the laser-cut production run. Some parts on the list are dimpled in later steps - check the dimpling status in the relevant section before assuming an error. ### Overview If you're choosing rivet gear or asking whether you can swap a Cherrymax for a solid rivet (or vice versa), here are the answers that come up most. ### Recommended Cherrymax pulling tools For pulling Cherrymax rivets in an RV build, the PRP-26A is not recommended. The Cherry-brand pneumatic tool is the gold standard but is expensive. Mid-range alternatives that work well for builders include hand-pull tools rated for the rivet diameter you're setting. Builder Tech Support can recommend tools currently in use by other builders for your specific rivet series. ### Cherrymax substituting for solid rivets Cherrymax substitution is approved at specific locations called out by plans or by Builder Tech Support - typically where a bucking bar cannot access the solid rivet location. Substitution is not automatic. Common approved cases: - Connection of E-902 to E-904 on the RV-9A empennage where forward/aft solid rivets cannot be properly set with even an offset rivet set - confirm with Builder Tech Support before substituting CR3213-4 or similar. - RV-14A page 29-07, figure 3, calls out CR3213-4-5 specifically because solid rivets cannot be properly set in that location. Use the called-out cherry rivets even though solid rivets fit the holes. If a flush Cherrymax is needed in place of an AN426AD4, the correct equivalent is generally CR3212-4 (flush head, not oversize). CR3242-4 is the 1/64" oversize version - only use oversize when called out for a specific repair. ### Failed test rivets (BSPQ-5-2) If BSPQ-5-2 rivets are failing on scrap aluminum - the mandrel pulling through without depressing the head - confirm: - You're using a pulling tool rated for the BSPQ-5-2 size. - The pulling head and jaw set are clean and not worn. - The grip range matches the material stack thickness. If the tool and grip range are correct and the rivets still fail, contact Builder Tech Support - a bad lot is rare but possible. ### Goofed rivets and Cherrymax patches If you've squeezed two rivets early and can't set adjacent rivets, pulling a Cherrymax in place of those two is generally not the best path - it changes the rivet pattern's strength characteristics. The safer move is to drill out the two early rivets and re-set all four solid. Check with Builder Tech Support if you're not sure. ### Overview If you've drilled out a rivet on your empennage and ended up with an oblong or oversized hole, you're in good company — it's one of the most common builder questions. This article covers when to use an oversize rivet, when to replace the part, and where to get authoritative guidance. ### Overview If you've found a gap, an edge-distance problem, or a bolt you simply can't reach, this article covers the recurring fastener and bracket issues Builder Tech Support sees. ### SB 16-12-16 (related) SB 16-12-16 calls for replacing rivets in specific locations with AN4-11A bolts, washers, and nuts per Figure 1. If your aircraft has rivets in those locations (for example, 8 of the locations identified), that is the condition the SB addresses and the modification is required. For imported aircraft missing drawings and the assembly manual, Van's can supply the documentation — provide the aircraft serial number when requesting. Van's can also confirm whether a given serial number was a Quick Build. ### Mis-bagged rivets (CS4-4 vs. LP4-4) Countersunk CS4-4 blind rivets and non-countersunk LP4-4 blind rivets look very similar and have been mis-bagged in some kits. The fiberglass tip attachments require CS4-4. If your Bag 411 contains LP4-4 instead of CS4-4, contact Van's Parts with your builder number and a photo - the correct rivets will be shipped. ### Smoking rivets after first flights Smoking rivets - black streaks emanating from the rivet head - indicate the rivet is working in the hole. Common on QB RV-14s flown frequently from grass strips. Inspect for: - Loose rivets (visible movement, gap under the head) - Elongated holes - Skin cracking around the rivet Document with close-up photos and submit to Builder Tech Support for individual evaluation - the fix depends on which rivets, how many, and what's happening structurally around them. ### Van's Tech Q&A: MIL-R-47196A – Military spec: rivets, buck type, preparation, and install *Copied from Van's Aircraft Tech Q&A on 2026-10-01. Source: [MIL-R-47196A – Military spec: rivets, buck type, preparation, and install](https://www.vansaircraft.com/faq/mil-r-47196a-military-spec-rivets-buck-type-preparation-and-install/).* **Official PDF:** [MIL-R-47196A\_MI.pdf](https://www.vansaircraft.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/MIL-R-47196A_MI.pdf) (20 pages). If the viewer below does not load, open the PDF with this link. **Text of the PDF** *Copied word for word from the PDF. Figures, drawings and table layouts are in the PDF above.* MIL-R-47196A(MI) 6 September 1977 SUPERSEDING MIL-R-46196(MI) 12 July 1974 **MILITARY SPECIFICATION** **RIVETS, BUCK TYPE, PREPARATION FOR AND INSTALLATION OF** This specification is approved for use by US Army Missile Command, Department of the Army, and is available for use by all Departments and Agencies of the Department of Defense. **1. SCOPE** **1.1 Scope**. This specification covers the preparation for and installation of buck rivets. **2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS** **2.1 Government documents.** The following document, of the issue in effect on date of invitation for bid or request for proposals forms a part of the specification to the extent specified herein: **SPECIFICATIONS** Federal - TT-P-1757: Primer Coating, Zinc Chromate, Low Moisture Sensitivity **STANADARDS** Military - MIL-STD-171: Finishing of Metal and Wood Surfaces (Copies of specifications, standards, drawings, and publications required by suppliers in connection with specific procurement functions should be obtained from the procuring activity or as directed by the contracting officer.) **3. REQUIREMENTS** **3.1 Rivets.** The rivet type, size, and material shall be as specified on the engineering drawing, parts list or specification. **3.1.1 Rivet handling.** The rivets, as furnished, shall be free from dust or dirt. **3.2 Preparation for installation.** **3.2.1 Rivet holes.** **3.2.1.1 Drilling.** Oversize, oblong and irregular-shaped holes shall be cause for rejection. Rivet holes shall be drilled in accordance with the following requirements: - **a.** All holes shall be drilled normal (at 90 degrees) to the working surface. - **b.** Extreme pressure shall not be applied and holes shall not be punched through with the drill. - **c.** When drilling through more than one sheet, hold the sheets securely together so there is no misalignment of holes due to shifting or separation of the sheets. **3.2.1.2 Piercing.** Only piercing tools which produce-true and clean holes, equivalent to acceptable drilled holes may be used. Piercing tools shall not be used without written approval from the procuring activity. If piercing is used, all holes shall be inspected for radial cracking. **3.2.1.3 Hole size.** Hole size for rivets shall conform to Table I unless otherwise specified on the engineering drawing or specification. **3.2.1.4 Countersinking.** Countersinking shall be used in the installation all flush type rivets. Countersinks shall be produced with a tool that incorporates an automatic stop countersinking feature. The countersinking tool shall be held at 90 degrees to the work surface during the entire cutting cycle. Countersinks shall be free of chatter marks and concentric with the rivet holes. The countersink diameter shall be in accordance with Table VI unless otherwise specified on the applicable engineering drawings or specifications. **3.3 Installation.** **3.3.1 Cleaning mating surfaces.** Before parts are riveted together, all chips, burrs and foreign material shall be removed from the mating surfaces. Burrs may be removed from rivet holes by chamfering to a depth not to exceed 10 percent of the stock thickness, or 0.032 inch, whichever is less. Disassembly after drilling and before riveting, in order to deburr faying surfaces, shall not be required. **3.3.2 Installation grip.** The rivet grip lengths shown on drawings shall be verified prior to installation. Grip length shall be changed as material thickness dictates as required to achieve minimum head dimensions as shown in Table III without buckling or bending or other driving difficulties. **3.3.3 Driving procedure.** **3.3.3.1 Head direction.** Unless specified on the engineering drawing or specification, the manufactured head of the rivet shall be located on exterior surfaces. **3.3.3.2 Rivet set.** Flat dies may be used on the manufactured head of universal head rivets provided the head is not flattened beyond the dimensions specified on Table II. **3.3.3.3 Peening.** The driven rivet shall completely fill the hole. Peening of the driven head by rolling the buckling bar shall not be permitted since the rivet hole will not be filled. **3.3.3.4 Head diameter.** Unless otherwise specified on the engineering drawing or specification, all rivets shall be driven to minimum head diameter specified in Table III. Driven head thickness larger than the maximum specified in Table III must be approved by the procuring activity. **3.3.3.4.1 Driven universal heads.** Driven universal heads may be formed on the shank side of the rivet using the next smaller size universal type head riveting die (example, 1/8 inch die for 5/32 inch shop head rivet). Driven universal type head sizes shall conform to the respective rivet diameter shown on Table III, unless otherwise specified on the engineering drawing or specification. **3.3.4 Multiple (gang) riveting** **3.3.4.l Head height.** The height of manufactured heads after riveting shall not be less than as specified in Table II. **3.3.4.2 Head flushness.** To prevent gapping of heads, when driven with a gang riveter, the rivet heads shall not be flush prior to driving. **3.3.5 Riveting contoured surfaces.** Tack rivets or other suitable devices at increments of every fifth or sixth hole must be used before final riveting when riveting contoured surfaces. **3.3.6 Countersunk rivet head flushness.** Unless otherwise specified on the engineering drawing or specification, flushness limits shall be 0.010 inch above to 0.005 inch below the material surface. Countersink diameters are provided in Table IV for reference. **3.3.7 Shaving countersunk rivets.** Rivets failing to meet flushness requirements may be shaved to new close tolerances. The material surface shall not be damaged by the shaving tools. The stop device on the shaver shall be adjusted so that it extends 0.001 inch to 0.002 inch beyond the cutter and the setting shall be tested prior to shaving the rivet head. The cutter used in the shaver shall be larger in diameter than the rivet head. Table V contains recommended cutter diameters. Shaved rivets may not protrude prior to shaving in excess of the dimensions shown in Table IV. The minimum head diameter after shaving shall be as specified in Table IV. **3.3.7.1 Shaving countersunk aluminum alloy rivets.** If shaving is required for aluminum alloy rivets to meet surface flushness requirements, one of the following checks shall be made to prevent loss of rivet tensile strength: a. Head protrusion shall not exceed "H" in Table IV, after driving and prior to shaving. b. Head diameter shall not be less than "D" in Table IV after driving and shaving. **3.3.7.2 Refinishing shaved rivet heads.** Refinishing of shaved rivet heads shall be required in areas where the parent material is painted, chemically treated, or primed. Refinishing shall be to the same requirements as the parent material. **3.4 Repair procedure.** Any repairs exceeding the limitations listed in the subparagraphs hereunder are prohibited without prior written approval from the procuring activity. **3.4.1 Oversize rivet holes.** When rivet holes are enlarged beyond specified tolerances, the next larger rivet size (diameter) may be used provided the row spacing, pitch and edge margin minimum are maintained and the requirements of paragraph 3.4.3 are not exceeded. The pitch is defined as the distance between the holes centers of adjacent rivets in a row. For pitch minimums, see Table VII. Row spacing minimum shall be .866 times the rivet spacing nominal dimension as given on the drawing. Edge margin is defined as the distance between hole centers and the edge of the material. There are two types of edge margins, visible and invisible. When viewed from the outside, or the side from which the rivet is inserted, the material edge in view is the visible edge and the edge hidden is the invisible edge. In case of conflict between the side rivet is inserted or outside, outside shall take precedence. See Table VIII for edge margin minimums. **3.4.2 Oversize countersinks.** When countersinks are enlarged beyond specified tolerances, the next larger size rivet may be used, provided pitch and edge margin requirements are maintained, the material thickness to be riveted will permit the use of a larger rivet and the limitations of 3.4.3 are not exceeded. The term "next larger size" shall be defined as the next larger diameter listed under the MS or NAS standard drawing, specification or other document specified on the engineering drawing for that application, but not to exceed 1/32 inch increments for sizes up to 1/4 inch diameter and 1/16 inch increments for sizes above 1/4 inch. **3.4.3 Repair limitations.** The combined oversize rivet hole repairs and oversize countersink repairs shall be limited to a maximum of 20 percent of the rivets, or 10 rivets in a single rivet pattern, whichever is less. Repairs to more than two adjacent oversize rivets, or replacing more than half the rivets with oversize rivets in any 10 inch length of pattern is prohibited. **3.5 Corrosion prevention.** When the rivet material is dissimilar to the material being riveted (reference MIL-STD-171), the rivet hole, countersink, and rivet shall be coated with zinc chromate primer in accordance with TT-P-1757 prior to installation. The rivet shall be installed while the primer is in the wet condition. **3.6 Finishing of riveted surfaces.** Unless other finishing requirements are specified on the engineering drawing, surfaces which are painted, primed or chemically treated prior to riveting shall have the surfaces, including rivets finished in the same manner after riveting, per specifications applicable to the parent material. Any exterior damage to the finish of the parent material shall be touched up to the same requirements. **3.7 Workmanship.** Installation of buck type rivets shall be accomplished in a workmanlike manner. Rivet assemblies shall be of uniform quality and free from cracks, gaps, sharp edges, burrs, loose parts, or other defects which might render the assemblies unsuitable for its intended purpose. **4. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS** **4.1 Responsibility for inspection.** Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the supplier is responsible for the performance of all inspection requirements as specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the contract or order, the supplier may use his own or any other facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection requirements specified herein, unless disapproved by the Government. The Government reserves the right to perform any of the inspections set forth in the specification where such inspections are deemed necessary to assure suppliers and services conform to prescribed requirements. **4.2 Inspection requirements.** To determine conformance to Section 3, installation of buck type rivets shall be performed in accordance with and inspected to all the requirements of Section 3 of this specification. Rivets, rivet holes, countersinks and material surfaces around rivets shall be visually and dimensionally inspected to determine compliance with the .requirements of applicable drawings and specifications and this standard. **4.2.1 Defect standard.** Rivet installations showing evidence of the following defects shall be classed defective (typical examples of unacceptability are shown on Figure 1). - **a.** On a beveled driven head where the minimum or maximum head height is outside Table III (see Figure 1A). - **b.** On an offset, clinched, bent over, or clubbed driven head (1) where a portion of the hole or the deburred surface is visible, (2) rivets on which the entire periphery of the bucked head does not show evidence of upset, or (3) clubbed or bent over portion exceeds the heights of Table III over any part of the surface area (see Figure 1B). - **c.** In a stepped driven head where the minimum or maximum head height is outside Table III. (The high part may be removed to be within acceptable limits.) (See Figure 1C). - **d.** Rivet does not completely fill hole (see Figure 1D). - **e.** Punch rings in driven head where lowest or highest surface is outside Table III head heights (see Figure 1E). - **f.** Loose rivets (see Figure 1F). - **g.** Sheet separation after riveting which allows a 0.002 inch feeler gage to be inserted between sheets from any direction far enough to touch rivet shank (see Figures 1G and 1H). - **h.** Any crack in 24S type rivet. - **i.** Cracked, cut or ringed heads on flush type rivets (see Figure 1J). - **j.** Misshaped driven heads (1) whose head heights exceed that shown in Table III, (2) where the shortest dimension is less than the minimum diameter of Table III, or (3) where the longest dimension of the head exceeds one and one-half (1.5) times the shortest dimension (see Figure 1K). - **k.** Cracks in driven heads (1) which fall within a circle which is concentric with and 1.10 times the nominal shank diameter, or (2) intersecting cracks, or (3) five or more cracks (see Figure 1L). - **l.** Cracks in non-flush type manufactured rivet heads which fall within a circle which is concentric with and 1.40 times the nominal shank diameter (see Figure 1M). - **m.** The occurrence of any gap around a continuous 60 percent of the circumference of the driven head. In the other 40 percent, gaps which allow a feeler gauge larger than 0.002 inch to be inserted. Any gap under the manufactured head. - **n.** Deformed skin or open seams caused by pressure on rivets. - **o.** Bulging skin caused by expanded skin or trapped chips. - **p.** Cut or marred skin caused by careless use of a bucking bar or rivet set. - **q.** Rivets not meeting requirements of Section 3 of this document. **5. PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY** This section not applicable to this specification. **6. NOTES** **6.1 Intended use.** The material covered by this specification is intended for the preparation and installation of buck rivets. **6.2 Ordering data.** Procurement documents should specify the following: Title, number, and date of this specification. **6.3 Supersession data.** This specification includes the requirements of Missile Interim Specification MIS-10096, dated 27 April 1965. **6.4 Changes from previous issue.** The margins of this specification are marked with an asterisk to indicate where changes (additions, modifications, corrections, deletions) from the previous issue were made. This was done as a convenience only and the Government assumes no liability whatsoever for any inaccuracies in these notations. Bidders and contractors are cautioned to evaluate the requirements of this document based on the entire content irrespective of the marginal notations and relationship to the last previous issue. Custodian: Army-MI Preparing activity: Army-MI Project No. 5320-A005 U..S GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1977-703.020/5447 **TABLE I. Hole Size, Standard Rivets** - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/16: Recommended Drill Sizes #51 (0.067); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.062; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.072 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/32: Recommended Drill Sizes #40 (0.098); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.093; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.103 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/8: Recommended Drill Sizes #30 (0.128); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.125; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.135 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/32: Recommended Drill Sizes #21 (0.159), #20 (0.161); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.156; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.171 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/16: Recommended Drill Sizes #11 (0.191), #10 (0.194); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.187; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.202 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 7/32: Recommended Drill Sizes #1 (0.228); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.218; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.233 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/4: Recommended Drill Sizes F (0.257); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.250; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.265 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 9/32: Recommended Drill Sizes L (0.290); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.281; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.296 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/16: Recommended Drill Sizes 0 (0.316); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.312; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.327 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 11/32: Recommended Drill Sizes S (0.348); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.343; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.358 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/8: Recommended Drill Sizes V (0.377); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.375; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.390 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 13/32: Recommended Drill Sizes Z (0.413); Hole Diameter Limits, Minimum 0.406; Hole Diameter Limits, Maximum 0.421 **TABLE II. Minimum Flattened Dimension of Manufactured Rivet Heads (Universal Type)** - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/16: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.022 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/32: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.032 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/8: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.042 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 5/32: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.052 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/16: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.062 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 7/32 \*\*: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.072 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/4: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.083 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 9/32 \*\*: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.093 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 5/16: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.104 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 11/32 \*\*: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.114 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/8: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.125 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 13/32 \*\*: Minimum Manufactured Head Height (inches) 0.135 \*\* Indicates oversize replacements **TABLE III. Standard Flat Driven Head Dimensions** - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/16: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.081; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.025; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.040 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/32: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.122; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.038; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.050 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/8: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.163; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.050; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.070 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 5/32: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.203; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.062; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.092 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/16: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.244; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.075; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.105 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 7/32 \*\*: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.285; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.087; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.110 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 1/4: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.325; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.100; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.130 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 9/32 \*\*: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.365; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.113; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.140 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 5/16: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.406; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.125; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.158 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 11/32 \*\*: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.450; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.137; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.170 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 3/8: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.488; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.150; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.190 - Rivet Shank Unbucked Nominal Diameter 13/32 \*\*: Minimum Driven Head Diameter (inches) 0.530; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Minimum 0.165; Driven Head Thickness (inches), Maximum 0.200 \*\* Indicates oversize replacements **TABLE IV. Required Dimensions for Rivet Shaving (inches)** - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/16: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.005; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.095 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.006; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.161 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/8: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.007; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.204 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.009; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.262 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/16: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.010; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.326 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 7/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.011; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.383 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/4: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.012; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.443 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 9/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.013; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.490 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/16: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.014; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.526 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 11/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.015; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.588 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/8: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.016; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.650 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 13/32: Maximum Head Protrusion Prior to Shaving ("H") 0.017; Minimum Head Diameter After Shaving ("D") 0.712 **TABLE V. Rivet Shaver Cutter Diameters (inches)** - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/16: Cutter Diameter 3/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/32: Cutter Diameter 3/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/8: Cutter Diameter 3/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/32: Cutter Diameter 3/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/16: Cutter Diameter 7/16 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 7/32: Cutter Diameter 1/2 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/4: Cutter Diameter 9/16 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 9/32: Cutter Diameter 9/16 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/16: Cutter Diameter 5/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 11/32: Cutter Diameter 5/8 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/8: Cutter Diameter 3/4 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 13/32: Cutter Diameter 3/4 **TABLE VI. Countersink Diameters (inches)** - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/16: Countersink Diameter 0.110 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/32: Countersink Diameter 0.176 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/8: Countersink Diameter 0.222 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/32: Countersink Diameter 0.284 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/16: Countersink Diameter 0.351 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 7/32: Countersink Diameter 0.411 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 1/4: Countersink Diameter 0.474 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 9/32: Countersink Diameter 0.522 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 5/16: Countersink Diameter 0.560 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 11/32: Countersink Diameter 0.625 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 3/8: Countersink Diameter 0.690 - Nominal Rivet Diameter 13/32: Countersink Diameter 0.756 **TABLE VII. Minimum Pitch (inches) (for repair using oversize rivets only, see 3.4.1)** - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/16: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.375; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.313; Universal Head Rivets 0.250 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/32: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.563; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.438; Universal Head Rivets 0.375 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/8: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.625; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.531; Universal Head Rivets 0.500 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/32: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.688; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.625; Universal Head Rivets 0.563 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/16: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.750; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.750; Universal Head Rivets 0.688 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 7/32 \*\*: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.875; Machine Countersunk Rivets 0.875; Universal Head Rivets 0.0781 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/4: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 0.938; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.375; Universal Head Rivets 0.875 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 9/32 \*\*: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 1.125; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.125; Universal Head Rivets 1.000 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/16: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 1.250; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.250; Universal Head Rivets 1.125 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 11/32: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 1.375; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.375; Universal Head Rivets 1.250 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/8: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 1.500; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.500; Universal Head Rivets 1.344 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 13/32 \*\*: Dimpled Countersunk Rivets 1.625; Machine Countersunk Rivets 1.625; Universal Head Rivets 1.469 \*\* indicates sizes normally used for oversize replacement only Lesser minimum spacings require government design activity approval unless otherwise indicated on the drawing. **TABLE VIII. Minimum Edge Margins (inches) (for repair using oversize rivets only, see 3.4.1)** - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/16: Minimum A and B 0.094; Minimum C and D 0.156 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/32: Minimum A and B 0.156; Minimum C and D 0.219 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/8: Minimum A and B 0.219; Minimum C and D 0.281 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/32: Minimum A and B 0.281; Minimum C and D 0.344 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/16: Minimum A and B 0.344; Minimum C and D 0.375 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 7/32 \*\*: Minimum A and B 0.406; Minimum C and D 0.438 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 1/4: Minimum A and B 0.438; Minimum C and D 0.500 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 9/32 \*\*: Minimum A and B 0.500; Minimum C and D 0.563 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 5/16: Minimum A and B 0.563; Minimum C and D 0.625 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 11/32: Minimum A and B 0.625; Minimum C and D 0.688 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 3/8: Minimum A and B 0.688; Minimum C and D 0.750 - Rivet Diameter (inches) 13/32 \*\*: Minimum A and B 0.750; Minimum C and D 0.812 \*\* indicates sizes normally used for oversize replacement only Lesser minimum spacings require government design activity approval unless otherwise indicated on the drawing (see Figure 2). *FIGURE 1. Typical Examples of Unacceptable Rivets* *FIGURE 2. Minimum Edge Margins* **Special Considerations** Provide a minimum of .03" between the edge of non-flush rivet heads (Nos. 1 or 2) and bend radius tangent point. Otherwise, maintain the normal edge distances, both visible and invisible. When the design calls for crimped sheet edges in conjunction with dimpled holes, add .06" to values indicated for flush rivets. This is to provide clearance for the crimping tool. - [Wing](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/wing?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Ailerons](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/wing?hsLang=en#ailerons) - [Spars](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/wing?hsLang=en#spars) - [Flaps](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/wing?hsLang=en#flaps) - [Fuel System](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuel-system?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Senders, Vents and Fittings](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuel-system?hsLang=en#senders-vents-and-fittings) - [Fuel Tanks](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuel-system?hsLang=en#fuel-tanks) - [Fuselage](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuselage?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Fuselage Structure](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuselage?hsLang=en#fuselage-structure) - [Canopy and Windows](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/fuselage?hsLang=en#canopy-and-windows) - [Finishing Kit](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/finishing-kit?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Wheels and Tires](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/finishing-kit?hsLang=en#wheels-and-tires) - [Fairings](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/finishing-kit?hsLang=en#fairings) - [Firewall Forward](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/firewall-forward?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Engine Mounts and Isolators](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/firewall-forward?hsLang=en#engine-mounts-and-isolators) - [Oil System](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/firewall-forward?hsLang=en#oil-system) - [Engine Selection and Installation](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/firewall-forward?hsLang=en#engine-selection-and-installation) - [Cowling and Baffles](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/firewall-forward?hsLang=en#cowling-and-baffles) - [Avionics](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/avionics?hsLang=en#main-content) - [EFIS and Displays](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/avionics?hsLang=en#efis-and-displays) - [Wiring, Harness and Panel](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/avionics?hsLang=en#wiring-harness-and-panel) - [Finishing](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/finishing?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Primers, Paint and Corrosion](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/finishing?hsLang=en#primers-paint-and-corrosion) - [Registrations](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/registrations?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Registration and Ownership](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/registrations?hsLang=en#registration-and-ownership) - [Inspection and First Flight](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/registrations?hsLang=en#inspection-and-first-flight) - [General](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Materials, Sealants and Composites](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#materials-sealants-and-composites) - [Tools and Workshop](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#tools-and-workshop) - [Rivets and Fasteners](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#rivets-and-fasteners) - [Plans, Manuals and Drawings](https://support.vansaircraft.com/knowledge-base/general?hsLang=en#plans-manuals-and-drawings) [![](https://support.vansaircraft.com/hs-fs/hubfs/vans_icon_orange.png?width=58&height=48&name=vans_icon_orange.png)](https://support.vansaircraft.com/?hsLang=en) [mailto:email@email.com](mailto:email@email.com) Copyright © 2026, Van's Aircraft, Inc.