MTFCA Forum

The brass flat rivets that hold the insulators to the brush plate holder, where would I find them, I've checked most vendors and they don't list them.

The originals are “spin-riveted” and isn’t something the average hobbyists has equipment for. I have used pop rivets from the back side and back up washers on the front. This works with the hard plastic insulators as well as the paper ones, although the paper insulators are not ideal.

Have you tried bigflats rivet co? Jim is very knowledgeable and very helpful, prices are reasonable.
http://bigflatsrivet.com/ I suggest a phone call to verify stock availability.

Like adam, I have used aluminum pop rivets for this task. I recommend epoxy and rivet for the paper insulators if those are being used. Best, jb

Heres some added info, you can search web if link doesn't work,
"For questions please call (607) 562-3501 or email Jim at jdix6@stny.rr.com"

Like others I have used rivet gun type rivets. Ace hardware has copper rivets which is what I used. I then used a flat punch with the brush holder on a back up to brad the rivets a little more. Works fine.

I have been using the short aluminum pop rivets for some time to hold the insulators on. Then use 6-32 button head allan head to attach the brush holders. Sometimes have to grind the heads of them down to clear. I do not recall seeing a split rivet in this location, solid or hollow type.

Have you tried McMaster-Carr (www.McMaster.com). When I was purchasing Manager for Mulberry Railcar Repair Co. for 37 years, McMaster-Carr was my go to place for just about anything I could not find anywhere else and they deliver the next day. Go to their site and do a search for rivets. You will be surprised at all the selections that will appear. Their catalog is a good 3” thick. Jim Patrick

Check with Ron Patterson on exactly what to use, and go from there. No problem.