Rivet Nut Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling an air bag module. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.

CAUTION: If the safety canopy/side air curtain module has deployed, the tether cord rivet nut must be inspected and replaced if damaged before installing a new safety canopy.

NOTE: A typical rivet nut replacement is shown that is similar for all vehicles.

NOTE: LH shown, RH similar.

Depower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .
Remove the necessary trim panel(s). For additional information, refer to INTERIOR TRIM AND ORNAMENTATION .
Remove the bolt and bracket for the tether cord (if present).

Fig 1: Removing Bolt And Bracket
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If needed, position and secure the safety canopy/side air curtain tether cord and bracket assembly out of the way.
Using the appropriate service tool, sand the rivet nut shoulder until the shoulder surface is removed.

Fig 2: Sanding Rivet Nut Shoulder
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Punch the remaining portion of the rivet nut through the rivet nut hole.

NOTE: Use only Ford Motor Company factory-authorized replacement parts for rivet nut repair procedure.

Obtain the correct square shank rivet nut for the vehicle application from the Ford Master Parts Catalog, and insert it into the rivet nut hole.
Using a suitable rivet nut installing tool, install the rivet nut. For additional information, refer to the tool manufacturer's operating instructions.
If present, position the tether cord. Install the bolt. See the appropriate component removal and installation procedure or specifications for the correct torque specification.

NOTE: The tether cord must be positioned correctly in place before installing the A-pillar trim panel.

Install the necessary trim panel(s). For additional information, refer to INTERIOR TRIM AND ORNAMENTATION .