Top handle

[KsDan]

I bought my kettle used about a year ago in fair condition. The top handle had started getting a little loose over the past month, and yesterday it came off. I ended up riveting the top handle on with steel rivets this afternoon.

Has anyone used rivets to connect top handle to a lid? Are there better options?

[landgraftj]

I'd imagine the rivets would work just fine. If not, Brian (zavod) makes exact replicas that you can screw on. Great handles too.

[Peaspurple]

I'm guessing you are talking about the whole handle that is welded to the lid? If so, how old is your kettle weber has a very good warranty/customer service department, I'd say one if the best. You may want to give them a call.

[MartyG]

I think he means the metal strap handle itself is coming loose from the lid. Right? I know a bunch of us have used SS bolts to secure a failed-weld handle, but I would think rivets might do the job just as well. The only down side is the amount of purchase they can effect given the diameter of the rivet head. I suppose you could add SS washers to the rivet to spread out the load. I'm sure someone here has been there - done that.

[Craig]

If it's the metal strapping part of the handle and the spot welds are coming loose, the rivets work like a charm. Duke turned me on to the rivets. Here's my 26 chief... The handle is tighter now than when it was welded. And these 26 lids are heavy...



3/16" rivets with a backer plate




Under the hood...




I used a Stanley rivet gun, there is also an Ace hardware brand gun. I have riveted a couple handles and most recently a broken socket on a redhead... Same size rivets..






These rivets can be painted to match, I just haven't painted these yet.

[KsDan]

Yes, the whole metal top handle, strap and all. 





The rivets are working fine, and the fish is almost done.

I wouldn't feel right making a warranty claim since it's evident the previous owner's dog used the handle as a chew toy.

[1buckie]

Yeah, it happens....the dawgs got to this one too....



Had to carve out another one:

[MrHoss]

Is that a beef rib bone being used as a handle?  If so that is SO cool!!!  I may have to steal your idea.

[1buckie]

  Here's the rest of the story, MrHoss......

http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/out-west-we-call'em/msg27571/#msg27571

[DirectDrive]

  Here's the rest of the story, MrHoss......

http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/out-west-we-call'em/msg27571/#msg27571

Cool story !


Dog 1
"Hehehe....did ya see where he hid the bone this time ?"

Dog 2
"Yup <chuckle>"