Hardell 14-Inch Manual Rivet Nut Tool: Complete How-To
The Hardell 14-inch manual rivet nut tool (A41-HDRN0014-1) installs rivet nuts (blind inserts) into thin sheet, square tube, and enclosed boxes. It is cleaner than welding or tapping and needs access from only one side.
Step-by-Step: Installing a Rivet Nut (HowTo)
Step 1: Pick the mandrel and nut
The kit includes 7 mandrels (M6 / M8 / M10 / 5-16 / 10-24 / 1-4-20 / 3-8-16). Choose the mandrel that matches your rivet nut and the plate thickness.
View the Hardell 14-inch rivet nut tool kit View the manual rivet nut tool
Step 2: Fit the mandrel
Screw the chosen mandrel into the head and seat the rivet nut on the tip.
Step 3: Insert into the hole
Push the nut into the pre-drilled hole and hold the tool square against the plate.
Step 4: Squeeze to set
Slowly squeeze the handle. The nut tail deforms and clamps the plate; stop when you feel it seat.
Step 5: Release the mandrel
Unscrew backward. The mandrel withdraws, and the nut remains in the plate as a threaded insert.
Where It Shines
- Aluminum extrusions and sheet-metal enclosures that need internal threads.
- Bikes and furniture that are taken apart and reassembled often.
- Closed parts where you cannot weld or tap from both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to drill a hole first?
Yes. Drill a hole sized to the rivet nut's body so it seats flush before you squeeze.
Can it handle steel plates?
It sets rivet nuts in thin steel and aluminum. For very thick steel, use the correct nut size and squeeze firmly.
Why not just weld or tap?
Rivet nuts need only one-side access, leave a clean finish, and are easy to remove or relocate—better for enclosures and repeat-assembly parts.
Final Verdict
For one-sided threaded inserts in sheet and tube, the in-stock Hardell 14-inch manual rivet nut tool (A41-HDRN0014-1) is the practical, clean solution. Keep the 7 mandrels organized and match the nut to the plate thickness.
