How to Fix Skate Rivets

Ice skaters keep their skates in proper working condition to prevent accidents and injuries. The rivets, which sit underneath the sole of the skate and hold the blade assembly together, remain overlooked sometimes but cause instability if damaged. Rusted or bent rivets usually require replacing -- done with special tools -- due to their extensive damage. Otherwise, you can remove old but structurally-sound rivets and reuse them to solve a simple alignment or loosening problem.

Things You'll Need

  • Gloves
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • Rivet gun
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove laces and replacement insoles from the skates. You only want the minimal amount of attachments on the skates while performing this repair. Further, these items can get in your way during the repair process.

    • 2

      Flip the skate upside down and locate the rivets. Next, insert a flat head screwdriver underneath the rivets and begin lifting them up. Use the screwdriver like a crowbar, creating leverage underneath the rivets to lift. Also, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the blade.

    • 3

      Grab the lifted rivets with a pair of pliers and pull them out. Continue this process until you remove all of the rivets. Inspect them for damage. Replace extensively-damaged rivets with new ones. Reuse old rivets still in good shape.

    • 4

      Insert the rivets into a hand-held rivet gun. Bring the rivet and rivet gun to the openings underneath the skate where the rivets once stayed in position. Begin squeezing the the rivet gun by gripping the two handles and squeezing them together. This device pulls the blind side of the rivet which, in turn, expands the other end. This expansion fastens the rivet in place. Continue squeezing the rivet gun until the rivet pops out.

    • 5

      Continue Step 4 until you fasten all of the rivets. Move the blade with your hand and check for any movement. Use the skates again when the blade remains firmly attached to the bottom.