Ford Transit USA Forum banner

Forum Discussions about this Product

1 - 10 of 12 Posts
    1. · Registered
      2020 AWD 148" HR T250 Ecoboost
      Joined
      ·
      26 Posts
      Thanks. This is great info. Not looking to go back and forth, but I do have one observation that leads to a few questions. It's interesting that the typical 3/8 internal tooth washer id spec is about 0.384, bit smaller than 0.390 hole spec for the plus nuts, but perhaps because of the tooth shape there may have been enough clearance (smush room) for the shoulder on the plus nut (if it is a brand that has that shape). No doubt creating a thicker surface is the key (and possibly only) factor that matters.

      Do you know what make plus nuts you used, or at least the supplier?
      Did you happen to notice if the washer would sit flush with plus nut flange when you pre-assembled them before applying any pressure with the tool?
      Also what tool were you using?
      I used the same washer/plus nut system as BobATX. Thanks BobATX! It works well. When I did not use washers I had spinners in my trial on 1/8" aluminum stock. With washers no spinners.
      Maybe I can help with your questions.
      The washer fits nice and flush on the plus nut and has wiggle room.
      I used:
      McMaster 91757A113 3/8" stainless washer
      McMaster 97217A393 1/4-20 plus nut. I tried M6 plus nuts since they are the size of some van holes but they didn't work well for me. These are more expensive than some Amazon versions. I tried less expensive variety and had trouble with them cross threading once installed.
      Tool:
      Astro 1450 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JBNNJ3Q/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_MXZNW1FM815KC2H8XP5B?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
      I had to practice on 1/8" aluminum to get the right length on the tool and a feel for the right pressure. Turns out I have to do one "pull" then extend the arms again using the set screw and then a smaller pull which finishes it off.
      151433
       

      Attachments

    1. · Registered
      2020 High-Extended AWD EcoBoost Cargo with windows
      Joined
      ·
      5,278 Posts
      Welcome.

      At least when I click it, that link shows an appropriate tool in the, "Frequently Bought Together," area: Amazon.com: Astro Pneumatic Tool 1450 13" Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit Metric & SAE: Home Improvement

      We've put in a couple hundred rivnuts with that tool on four builds. Our 6mm mandrel is just about worn out! :LOL:

      If we weren't so accustomed to it, I'd be tempted to try out the drill-driven or pneumatic tools; but I haven't tried one yet. 'Sides, the manual one is a good workout for our weak rock-climber muscles. 😄
       
    2. · Registered
      21 AWD 130WB Mid Roof 150
      Joined
      ·
      42 Posts
      Discussion Starter · #3 ·
      Welcome.

      At least when I click it, that link shows an appropriate tool in the, "Frequently Bought Together," area: Amazon.com: Astro Pneumatic Tool 1450 13" Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit Metric & SAE: Home Improvement

      We've put in a couple hundred rivnuts with that tool on four builds. Our 6mm mandrel is just about worn out! :LOL:

      If we weren't so accustomed to it, I'd be tempted to try out the drill-driven or pneumatic tools; but I haven't tried one yet. 'Sides, the manual one is a good workout for our weak rock-climber muscles. 😄
      Thanks so much! I'm a total newb so confirmation on the correct tool is very helpful. My weak 'haven't climbed in years' muscles could use some waking up too 🤣
       
    1. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      7,069 Posts
      Yes, any kind of grease on the threads and head makes a huge difference with installation.
      What happens if I want to use thread-locker on the fastener after it is installed? Maybe that is an advantage of using a lever style installer like the Astro 1450 (where it will fit) instead of one of the screw type installers?
       
    2. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      2,152 Posts
      What happens if I want to use thread-locker on the fastener after it is installed? Maybe that is an advantage of using a lever style installer like the Astro 1450 (where it will fit) instead of one of the screw type installers?
      I used a bolt, at least 3 greased washers (as a thrust bearing) and a small cordless impact driver for installation so I can't comment on other installation methods. I would absolutely use this method again because it worked very well after a few practice runs.

      The risk of using thread-locker is that if you have to remove a bolt, the plusnut might end up just spinning in the hole. I haven't had any fasteners come loose so far as I know (some are buried) but I'd suggest lock-washers might be preferable if you're really concerned.
       
    1. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      7,226 Posts
      This is the only lever style tool with the longer mandrel needed for plus nuts that I have come across.
      Astro Pneumatic 1450
      Amazon link
      The $35 McMaster-Carr nutsert tool required a longer bolt for Plusnuts. Tool worked fine for two conversions and because is small that allowed for its use in tight locations.

       
    1. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      235 Posts
      Trying to get the combined knowledge of transit-kind to put together a list of the most important tools you all have used during your conversion. Maybe not screwdrivers and hammers, but the tools one may not have already… voltmeters, plusnut/rivnut tool, the tool to remove headliners, etc
      I provided some links. I don't get a referal or anything, but a lot of this stuff was in my Amazon order history, so it was not much to link. This is the stuff I used for the build and could have not done without. No screw drivers, wrenches or items most would already have if contemplating a build.

      A) To do Electrical:
      1) You should have a volt meter to trouble shoot and learn. , but no need to spend $$$$ on a fluke.
      2) Crimper for larger lugs (low cost version and some would say not safe)
      3) Heat gun for heat shrink - low cost corded version at home depot
      4) Wire stripper with hand crimping
      5) Hand Crimper
      6) blade to cut sheathing

      B) Plumbing: I chose to use Uponor/ pex A - You don't need the expensive battery powered tool for small jobs like a van.
      1) Uponor /Propex Expander tool This system was easy for a first timer plumber like me.

      C) CARPENTRY:
      1) Astro Pneumatic Tool 1450 13" Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit
      2) Oscillating Multi-Tool I already had battery and charger from drill set
      3) STROTON 4-32mm Metric 6% Cobalt Step Drill Bit for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal
      4) Different sized hole saws (can not use step bet for all holes - example not clean through insulated van floor)
      5) Gig saw (already had)
      6) Miter/chop saw - needed for extruded aluminum. not needed if framing in wood but helpful.
      7) Kreg ACS2000 Adaptive Cutting System Saw + Guide Track Kit (Because I suck at carpentry and I need all the help I can get with straight lines - also don't have good storage place for table saw.)
      8)
      You should have a triangle square
      9) Kreg Jig K4 Master System with Screw Kit (I need all the help I can get in this area -suck at carpentry)
      10) Cordless Drill I don't use the impact drill. Got bad results with plus nuts spinning.
      11) Corded Angle Grinder - cheaper one- not often used, but was very helpful for cutting L- framing for grey water tank.

      D: Upholstery:
      1) MICTUNING 13 Pcs Auto Trim Removal Only used the metal tools so far.

      Good Luck!
       
    1. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      182 Posts
      Discussion Starter · #1 ·
      I bought some van conversion items early, as I was worried that they might be hard to get (and/or more expensive) when my van arrived. The problem is that my Transit orders were both cancelled by Ford (for 2021 and 2022 MY), so I no longer need these items.

      $300 [plus shipping] for everything, which is half price. Everything is brand new, in original packaging.

      To save on shipping, they can be picked up at my home in northern NH. Or I can bring these items down to the Adventure Van Expo – NH in Belmont, NH on Sunday, July 31st, if this is easier for anyone. All the items are listed below with their Amazon links.

      3M Thinsulate Acoustic/Thermal Insulation SM600L (40' x 60") https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074XGMJ47/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

      SmartSHIELD -3mm 24"x50Ft Reflective Insulation roll, Foam Core Radiant Barrier, Thermal Insulation Shield, Commercial Grade [2 rolls=100Ft] https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0844L83LQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

      MAT66 ProBlack 80 mil 36 sqft Car Sound Deadening Mat, Butyl Automotive Sound Deadener, Vehicle Audio Sound Insulation and Dampening Material [2 boxes = 72 sqft] https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZKLKHN5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

      Astro Pneumatic Tool 1450 13" Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit Metric & SAE https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JBNNJ3Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
       
    1. · Registered
      Joined
      ·
      438 Posts
      Discussion Starter · #6 ·
1 - 10 of 12 Posts

Forum Reviews

Be the first to review this product

Write a Review

Do you have experience with this item? Help our community members and share your knowledge.

Sign in to add review

Top