How to Install a Rivet Nut

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

A rivet nut is a threaded fastener that can be installed in many different types of material including steel, plastic, fiberglass, and composite materials. They’re also really easy to install. Start by drilling a hole that will fit the rivet nut. Then, attach the rivet nut onto the rod known as a mandrel of a handheld rivet nut tool. Insert the rivet nut into the hole, squeeze the handles of the tool, and remove the tool from the nut by unscrewing the mandrel.

Things You Should Know

  • Use a drill bit designed for whatever material you’re installing the rivet in to drill a pilot hole for the nut; the bit should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the rivet nut.
  • Carefully drive the pilot hole into the surface where you’re installing the rivet using the lowest drill speed setting necessary.
  • Slide the rivet nut into the mandrel of a rivet nut tool and pull the mandrel all the way back in the housing.
  • Hold the rivet nut over the pilot hole and close the handles on your rivet nut tool to force the nut into place.
  • If the rivet nut won’t slide into the opening, expand your pilot hole by using a slightly bigger drill bit.
Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Drilling a Hole

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-1.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In order to drill a clean hole through the metal, you need to start with a small drill bit to create a tiny hole. Rotate the chuck, or end of the drill, to open the jaws that clamp onto the bit. Insert a small drill bit into the end of your power drill, hold the chuck again, and squeeze the trigger to close the jaws and hold the bit in place. [1]
    • Make sure the drill bit is held securely by tugging at it.
    • Use a 1 ⁄ 8 inch (0.32 cm) drill bit or smaller to start.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-2.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Bringing the drill to full speed before you set it against the metal can cause it to shoot off in another direction and potentially scratch the surface. Place the drill bit against the surface and bring the drill up to speed slowly. [2]
    • Thin metal sheets or softer metals such as aluminum will be easier to drill through.
    • Bring the drill to full speed so it can push through the metal.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-3.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While the drill bit is spinning, apply constant pressure by pushing against the drill with your hands. Eventually, the drill bit will penetrate the surface of the metal. Push it through the metal to create an even hole. [3]
    • Don’t use jerky movements or attempt to shove the drill bit through the metal or it could move out of place and scratch the surface.

    Tip: Slide the drill bit in and out of the hole a few times to give a smooth edge to the hole.

  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-4.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Swap out the drill bit for one with a larger diameter and place the end of it into the hole you made with the smaller bit. Bring the drill up to speed slowly and apply pressure to it. Drive the drill bit through the hole to create a wider opening. Try sliding the rivet nut into the hole whenever you change bits to see if it fits. Whenever it slides into place, stop increasing the size of the hole. [4]
    • Try to fit the rivet nut into the hole before you widen it further.
    5. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Fitting the Rivet Nut onto the Mandrel

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-5.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    On a rivet nut tool, the mandrel is a rod that holds the rivet nut in place when you’re securing it to the metal and the nosepiece holds the rivet nut on the tool when you’re installing it. Slide it into the tool and screw on the nosepiece that secures it and allows you to thread your rivet nut onto the tool. [5]
    • Most rivet nut tools have several mandrels of different sizes, so choose the one that fits the rivet nut you plan to install.

    Tip: If you can’t locate where you need to insert the mandrel on your tool, check the owner’s manual, or look up the make and model of your tool online.

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-6.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The handle of the tool needs to be loaded up so you can drive the rivet nut into the hole and install it. Use both hands to pull the handles of the tool apart so it’s fully open and is ready to receive the rivet nut. [6]
    • If you try to install the rivet nut with the handle closed, the tool will not work.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-7.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    At the end of the mandrel is a threaded nosepiece. Attach the rivet nut by screwing it onto the end of the mandrel until it’s flush with the end of the tool. [7]
    • You will see the very end of the mandrel inside of the rivet nut.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-8.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    With the rivet nut flush against the end of the tool, pull on the back end of the mandrel. It will slide back a little bit and allow you to turn the adjuster knob to tighten it. Turn the knob until it’s flush against the back edge of the tool. [8]
    • Tighten the knob well so the mandrel is held securely.
    5. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Securing the Rivet Nut

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-9.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Hold the handles of the tool and slide the rivet nut into the hole. Press the edges of the nut so they’re even and flush against the edge of the metal you’re installing it into. [9]
    • Avoid installing the rivet nut at an uneven angle or it won’t be as secure.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-10.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use both of your hands to press the 2 handles of the rivet nut tool together. The tool will force the rivet nut to expand inside of the hole, which will connect it to the metal. [10]
    • You won’t hear a “click” or a “pop” when the tool is finished install the rivet nut. Bring the handles together as far as you can.

    Warning: Avoid forcing or jamming the handles of the tool together or you could damage the threading of the rivet nut and make it unusable.

  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-11.jpg\/aid11485752-v4-728px-Install-a-Rivet-Nut-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Unscrew the adjuster knob at the end of the tool and slide the tool off of the mandrel. Then, turn the mandrel to unscrew it from the rivet nut attached to the metal. You can now use the rivet nut to install screws to the metal. [11]
    • Use your fingers to try to wiggle the rivet nut to make sure it’s secure.
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Things You’ll Need

      • Power drill
      • Drill bits
      • Rivet nut tool
      • Rivet nut

      You Might Also Like

      How to Set and Use a Torque Wrench
      How to
      Remove Rivets
      Best Ways to Remove a Snapped Off Bolt
      How to
      Calibrate a Torque Wrench
      How to
      Remove a Stuck Bolt
      How to Easily Load a Packing Tape Gun
      How to
      Make Velcro Stick Again
      How to
      Open Cable Ties
      How to
      Hang Something on Brick
      How to
      Make a Rubber Band Ball
      How to
      Use Lock Washers
      How to
      Install Grommets
      The Easiest Ways to Apply Command Strips or Hooks at Home
      How to
      Measure a Bolt
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/3Og-tHIR_0I?t=58
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=31
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/3Og-tHIR_0I?t=63
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/3Og-tHIR_0I?t=63
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=48
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=48
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=52
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=57
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/PEz9yBnGN-U?t=74
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/5Wy9T4N2fDs?t=180
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/5Wy9T4N2fDs?t=192

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 40,605 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement