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Thread: Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

  1. #1
    jim_jm's Avatar
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    Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

    I'm sure several folks on here have replaced the leather handles on wooden field cameras, so I'd like to ask for some advice on the best way to approach this.
    Camera is an 8x10 Deardorff V8, and as part of the restoration, I need to remove the split rivets holding down the 2 handle brackets so I can remove the old leather handle and install a new one. Being that this is a valuable camera (to me), I'd like to do this with as little damage to the wood as possible. Some videos on Youtube show them being removed from antique trunks, but they use screwdivers to pry up the split rivet legs, with little concern for damaging the wood. I'm thinking it'll be better to drill through the center of the rivet from the bottom, then snap off the rivet head with pliers. My intent is to replace the rivets with new ones.
    As far as installing the new rivets, would it suffice to install the rivets, spread the legs with a screwdriver then hammer them down flush with the wood? Is there a tool that might perform this task quicker and cleaner? Also, any recommendations for sources of rivets / tools would be welcome. Thanks!

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  2. #2
    Paul Ron's Avatar
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    Re: Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

    just lift those ears n push the rivit out. they work like the paper fasteners. its no big deal.

    amount of damage you do is up to how skilled you are. what you saw in the u tube doesnt have to be what you can do with a bit more care.

    .

  3. #3
    Tin Can's Avatar
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    Re: Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

    I don't trust those flimsy purse straps on most LF camera

    I buy bigger and use bolts from here

    https://www.brettunsvillage.com/trun...tcase-handles/
    Tin Can

  4. #4

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    Re: Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

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    I have used split rivets to replace a leather handle for a Deardorff V8 before. After you remove the old ones, usually they are damaged and cannot be re-used. You have to buy new ones, which are hard to find. I now use bolts from ACE hardware store. They are 4mm 0.5-o.6cm long???? Also buy matched washers with them. Very cheap, 4 sets are less than $2.

  5. #5
    jim_jm's Avatar
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    Re: Replacing split rivets on Deardorff

    Thanks to all for the recommendations!
    I ended up drilling out each rivet from below, then the legs were much easier to bend without damaging the wood. I managed to remove one rivet intact so I could take accurate measurements.
    Found the exact same size replacement rivets on Amazon, with 1-day shipping.

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