Hey All,
Some of you may be aware that the fiberglass/plastic panel at the rear of the underbody of the car is held in place by tapping screws and plastic nuts.
An issue that I have experienced recently is finding a good way to repair the broken studs used to hold the plastic nuts, which in turn hold the panel to the underbody.
I'm referring to this piece (part #5 -- long horizontal piece)
![Image]()
The studs are tac welded at the factory to the underbody and hold this piece with the plastic nuts (part #2)
![Image]()
If too much torque is applied, the studs simply snap off.
I think I found a unique way to fix this common issue: Rivnut and Rivstud
Website: Custom Rivnuts Fasteners and Plusnuts - Rivnut Blind Fasteners at Cardinal Components
Depending on how one wishes their plan of attack
(1) simply not using the plastic nut and using a tapping screw or
(2) continue using the plastic nut.
Plan of Attack -- Course 1.
![Image]()
Based on the part specifications from the second image, the plastic nuts are M5 sized, so finding a corresponding M5 Rivnut is necessary and available on pages 14-15 of the company's catalog (Rivnut® – Flat Head Round Body Open End)
************************************
Plan of Attack -- Course 2.
![Image]()
Same as above, except using the Rivstud. I think this is better, and the stud (15mm = .6") is perfect in length.
I will make two repairs this spring, and will post pics.
Some of you may be aware that the fiberglass/plastic panel at the rear of the underbody of the car is held in place by tapping screws and plastic nuts.
An issue that I have experienced recently is finding a good way to repair the broken studs used to hold the plastic nuts, which in turn hold the panel to the underbody.
I'm referring to this piece (part #5 -- long horizontal piece)
The studs are tac welded at the factory to the underbody and hold this piece with the plastic nuts (part #2)
If too much torque is applied, the studs simply snap off.
I think I found a unique way to fix this common issue: Rivnut and Rivstud
Website: Custom Rivnuts Fasteners and Plusnuts - Rivnut Blind Fasteners at Cardinal Components
Depending on how one wishes their plan of attack
(1) simply not using the plastic nut and using a tapping screw or
(2) continue using the plastic nut.
Plan of Attack -- Course 1.
Based on the part specifications from the second image, the plastic nuts are M5 sized, so finding a corresponding M5 Rivnut is necessary and available on pages 14-15 of the company's catalog (Rivnut® – Flat Head Round Body Open End)
************************************
Plan of Attack -- Course 2.
Same as above, except using the Rivstud. I think this is better, and the stud (15mm = .6") is perfect in length.
I will make two repairs this spring, and will post pics.
