Using Flow Form Rivets

Describes how to use flow form rivets in the repair of Tesla vehicles.

To install the flow form rivets specified in a Tesla structural repair procedure, use the information in this document to perform the following steps:

  1. Prepare the panels for rivet installation.
  2. Select an approved riveter and associated dies to install the flow form rivets.

Flow form rivets can also be used as an alternative to self-piercing rivets (SPRs) in any Tesla structural repair procedure that specifies the use of SPRs. This includes situations where there might not be sufficient room for the installation of SPRs because panels have been previously replaced.

To use flow form rivets in place of SPRs, use the information in this document to perform the following steps:

  1. Select the correct flow form rivet for the thickness of the panel stack.
  2. Prepare the panels for installation.
  3. Select an approved riveter and associated dies to install the flow form rivets.

Selecting the Correct Rivet

Each flow form rivet approved for use in Tesla structural repairs is designed for a specific grip range, based on the length of the rivet.
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Note
All flow form rivets approved for use in Tesla structural repairs have a body diameter of 8 mm.

Perform the steps listed below to determine the correct flow form rivet for a given panel stack.

  1. Use a caliper to measure the total thickness of the panel stack.

  2. Use the information in the table below to find the flow form rivet where the measured thickness of the panel stack falls within the grip range of the rivet.
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    Note
    When the measured thickness of the panel stack is within the grip range of two flow form rivets, use the longer rivet.
    Flow Form RivetGrip Range (mm)
    S081.3 – 2.5
    S182.3 – 3.5
    S283.35 – 4.10
    S384.0 – 5.15
    S485.0 – 6.1
    S586.0 – 7.2
    S687.1 – 8.3
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Refer to Approved Fasteners and Fastener Tools for Structural Repairs for flow form rivet fastener symbols and part number information.

Preparing the Panels for Installation

Create 8 mm holes in the panel for flow form rivet installation. The holes can either be punched with a riveter designed for punching 8 mm holes in metal panel stacks, or they can be drilled with an 8 mm bit.
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Note
When drilling holes, the edges of the holes must be deburred before installing the flow form rivets.

Selecting an Approved Riveter and Dies

Select one of the approved riveters and dies listed below to install flow form rivets.
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Note
Refer to the appropriate tool instructions for more information on how to properly install a flow form rivet with a specific riveter.
Riveter Installation Pressure (kN) Approved Dies
Manufacturer Model
Wieländer + Schill XPress 800 60 C3, C4, C5 from Wieländer + Schill
TKR PNP 90 UN 2.0 60
PNP 90 XT² 60
ProSpot PR-5 50 FF-8-1, FF-8-2, FF-8-3
Bӧllhoff HTF 50 SPR Tool 50 Flow Form Punch Assembly (55003226514),Flow Form Die (95300285166)