LIBRATON 16-inch Rivet Nut Tool Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The LIBRATON 16-inch Rivet Nut Tool is a heavy-duty hand tool designed for setting rivet nuts in various materials. It features a robust carbon steel construction with a heat-treated finish for durability. The ergonomic 16-inch handles are equipped with TPR shock-proof grips, providing comfort and increased leverage for force-saving operation. This tool is ideal for a wide range of applications including automotive body panels, sheet metal, plastic parts, riveted wood, furniture, and decorative items.

Image: LIBRATON 16-inch Rivet Nut Tool highlighting its long handles and TPR soft rubber grips.

2. What's Included

Your LIBRATON Rivet Nut Tool kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories to get you started:

• 1 x LIBRATON 16-inch Hand Rivet Nut Tool
• 11 x Interchangeable Mandrels (Metric: M5, M6, M8, M10, M12; SAE: 8-32, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, 1/2-13)
• 110 x Rivet Nuts (10 pieces of each of the 11 specifications)
• 1 x Blow-Molded Carrying Case for organized storage and transport

Image: A visual representation of the 11 common types of mandrels and corresponding rivet nuts included in the kit, color-coded for easy identification.

Image: The durable blow-molded carrying case designed for secure transportation and organized storage of the tool and all its components.

3. Setup

The LIBRATON Rivet Nut Tool features an innovative quick-change mechanism for mandrels, requiring no additional tools.

3.1. Changing Mandrels

1. Unscrew the nosepiece (collar) from the tool head.
2. Remove the current mandrel bolt.
3. Select the appropriate size mandrel bolt for your rivet nut. The mandrels are color-coded for quick matching.
4. Insert the new mandrel bolt into the tool head. Ensure it locks securely into place.
5. Screw the nosepiece back onto the tool head until finger-tight.

Image: Step-by-step visual guide demonstrating how to quickly install a new mandrel and screw on the nosepiece without tools.

3.2. Loading a Rivet Nut

1. Open the tool handles fully.
2. Screw the selected rivet nut onto the mandrel bolt until it is fully seated.

4. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps to properly set a rivet nut using your LIBRATON tool:

1. Prepare the Hole: Drill a hole of the correct size for your rivet nut in the material. Ensure the hole is clean and free of burrs.
2. Insert Rivet Nut: With the rivet nut loaded onto the mandrel, insert the rivet nut into the prepared hole in your workpiece.
3. Squeeze Handles: Firmly squeeze the tool handles together. This action will compress the rivet nut, creating a secure threaded insert in your material. Apply steady, even pressure.
4. Release Tool: Once the rivet nut is fully set, rotate the knob on the tool counter-clockwise to disengage the mandrel from the set rivet nut.
5. Remove Tool: Carefully remove the tool from the newly set rivet nut.

Image: A visual guide illustrating the four main steps for using the LIBRATON 16-inch Rivet Nut Tool to set a rivet nut.

4.1. Important Notes for Operation

• Ensure that all parts of the rivet nut gun are securely fastened before use.
• Always ensure the rivet nut gun is held vertical to the surface of the object when applying pressure. Uneven force can lead to thread damage or tool malfunction.
• Avoid over-crimping the rivet nut, as this can strip the threads of the mandrel.

Image: A graphic highlighting critical safety and operational notes, including ensuring secure parts and maintaining a 90-degree angle to the workpiece.

4.2. Official Product Video: How to Use

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your LIBRATON Rivet Nut Tool:

• Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the tool with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust, debris, or metal shavings.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the mandrel bolts and the internal mechanism of the nosepiece. This prevents galling and ensures smooth operation during mandrel changes and rivet nut setting.
• Storage: Store the tool and all accessories in the provided blow-molded carrying case in a dry, clean environment to prevent rust and damage.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the mandrels and other moving parts for any signs of wear or damage. Replace worn parts as needed.

6. Troubleshooting

While the LIBRATON Rivet Nut Tool is designed for durability, certain issues can arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

6.1. Stripped Mandrel Threads

• Symptom: The rivet nut does not set properly, or the mandrel spins freely without engaging the rivet nut.
• Cause: This often occurs due to over-crimping, applying excessive force beyond what is needed to set the rivet nut, or using the wrong size mandrel for the rivet nut.
• Solution: Avoid applying excessive force. The tool is designed with a safety failure point in the draw bar threads to prevent damage to the main tool body. If threads are stripped, replacement mandrels are available individually.

6.2. Rivet Nut Not Setting Fully

• Symptom: The rivet nut does not fully compress or secure itself in the material.
• Cause: Insufficient force applied, incorrect mandrel size, or an oversized drilled hole.
• Solution: Ensure you are using the correct mandrel and rivet nut size for the drilled hole. Apply firm, steady pressure until the rivet nut is fully compressed.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

LIBRATON is committed to providing reliable tools and excellent customer service. If you require replacement mandrels or have any questions regarding your LIBRATON 16-inch Rivet Nut Tool, please contact our customer support. We aim to reply to all inquiries within 24 hours.

For further assistance, please visit the official LIBRATON store or contact your retailer.