Hope someone here may have some insight...

Bought an '03 E350 Super Duty 7.3L powerstroke a few weeks back. Formerly a locksmith van, I've been removing shelves, floorliner, cargo cage, etc. so that I can begin my buildout.

I'm stumped on how to remove these fasteners - they look like rivets but have a threaded bolt inside them, no head, and are recessed. The backside of the only one I was able to get out (it was already loose somehow) has a recessed hex head, I think 3mm or 2.5 mm. These are all mounted in either the wall/floor of the van or in the roof/side (for the cargo cage). Any suggestions, or do I have a fun few hours ahead of me with my drill and angle grinder?

Thanks!

 

I wish I could offer some encouragement, but have installed many like these when upfitting customer's vehicles. Some are serrated when installed and are not intended to be removed. From what I can recall your drill/grinder are probably the better way to punch them out. Instead of removing them , if flush with the surface, can you manage to cover them ? You will have loads of holes to fill when removed. Can any of them be used to your advantage?

 

Thanks!

I am insulating/paneling/flooring the van, so I need to get them out. They will be covered eventually!

Looks like grinder it is. I called the company that made the bulkhead and they told me that they are called Cherry Fasteners.

 

Cherry rivets are an Aerospace fastener and are like super pop rivets. Drilling them out is the way.