Dorman Rivet Nut and Hand Tool Kit, 26-Piece Tray — #10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18 Thread Sizes, Portable

This all-in-one tray contains a hand tool and a selection of rivet nuts in three common thread sizes (#10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18), providing a straightforward solution for attaching components to thin sheet metal, plastics, or composite panels. The kit is intended for automotive, DIY, fabrication, and maintenance tasks where a permanent, load-bearing thread is needed but you can’t reach through the workpiece to use a nut on the opposite side.

How do I use the Dorman rivet nut tool kit?

Using the hand tool is simple: select the correct mandrel and rivet nut for your material thickness and thread size, insert the rivet nut into the prepared hole, and squeeze the tool to deform the nut’s backside, forming a secure flange. The process creates a captive internal thread without needing access behind the panel.

• Choose rivet nut size from #10-24, 1/4-20, or 5/16-18.
• Drill or prepare a hole to the recommended diameter for the chosen insert.
• Thread the rivet nut onto the mandrel, insert, and actuate the hand tool until set.
• Unthread the mandrel to leave a finished, load-rated internal thread.

Which materials and thicknesses work with these rivet nuts?

Rivet nuts are designed for thin materials that can’t accept a conventional nut and bolt—typical targets include sheet metal, stamped panels, and certain reinforced plastics. Proper selection of rivet nut size and hole diameter is essential for achieving full clamping strength and preventing pull-through.

• Suitable for steel, aluminum, and some composite panels.
• Best for thin sections where backside access is restricted or impossible.
• Match hole diameter and rivet nut length to material thickness for optimal performance.
• Consult the kit’s included dimensions before installing to avoid misfits.

What does the tray include and how durable is the tool?

The organized tray groups the hand tool, mandrels, and a measured selection of rivet nuts so you have the right parts on hand for common repair and fabrication projects. Components are manufactured to Dorman’s specifications and built to withstand repeated installation cycles under typical workshop conditions.

• 26-piece kit: hand tool, mandrels for supplied thread sizes, and a variety of rivet nuts.
• Tray packaging keeps pieces sorted and portable for jobsite use.
• Tool body and mandrels made for repeated mechanical use and consistent swaging.
• Dorman’s quality control and decades of parts experience back the construction.

Who is this for? The Dorman 963-997 rivet nut and hand tool kit is aimed at mechanics, restoration hobbyists, metal fabricators, and anyone doing maintenance or custom installations where a strong internal thread is needed but access is limited to one side. It’s also a handy kit for home garages, maintenance shops, and mobile technicians who need a compact, reliable set of inserts and an installer for routine repairs and upgrades.