Vent window gasket replace

Do I have to take the vent window metal channel off the front window slider( drill out the rivets) to replace the vent window gasket? If so where the hell do you get rivets that small and where can I get a tool to crimp them. Help please, Thank you. ~GK.

There are some old threads on this over at VCVC, maybe here too...there is a special GM tool used to rivet the strip in the track. Several said the rivets are available from Classic Truck Parts and other restoration suppliers, start calling, a cheap repro tool is also around. here's one that lists a vent rivet setting tool, $3.99 http://www.56chevy.com/misc.htm hope this helps get you started

GK, check this thread out. For what those seals cost, you don't want to mess them up.
https://vintage-vans.forumotion.com/t47192-vent-window-restoration#216507

Victory is mine!!! Almost. So I clamped on a set and went at it. I checked at the local fastener place and found some rivets that would probably work and with a little help and some tool making I've got the gaskets in and riveted. Only thing now is the hinge rivet. Its the one that is on the top out side that is the top hinge . If anyone knows where or if I can get them please let me know. I'm so close to being able to drive my van and can't wait. Pics soon. Thanks ~GK.

I'm replying to myself and all who might want to know. I found the magic rivets (I think) at LMC. They are for a 73-80 blazer but I'm guessing they will work. $10 for the tool and rivets, I'll take a chance and let you know how it went. By the way the 10 bucks gets you a whole vent window repair kit (30-2741) Hinge rivets, rear seal rivets, the tool and other stuff. So if this works its a complete homerun. I'll post when I'm done. ~ GK.

the hinge rivet is a harder material than the aluminum rivets for the rubber seals , after nearly breaking my vent window I used a stainless steel button head machine screw with a nylon lock nut . Dr. J has a 47 min. video on you tube on how to rebuild a 67-72 truck vent window, very similar to our van vent windows . I don't know how to post the link .    http://i18servimg.com/u/f18/18/21/57/63/11111jpg

Good idea with the small nylon lock nut, then you can adjust the tension to help keep the window open at 50 mph+, mine blows closed because the rivet and spring are so worn, maybe try that! Thanks for the tip!

The rivets for the rubber are originally brass. The same rivet and install tool is used today for riveting brake linings onto the steel back plate of small aircraft like cessna 172 or what ever.  Look to "Aircraft Spruce" catalog. You have to trim the felt out of the devision bar for the rivet head to sit low enought to clear the glass.

The hinge rivet can be had from Clarks Corvair, exact replacement.

m1D

We recently rebuilt the vents for my van. The hinge rivet is tricky, but only take a few minutes. It needs to be set, checked, tightened, checked, and so on. Steadily bring it down til you have moderate resistance.

It's the same hinge rivet available from any of the truck parts suppliers.