Installing a new Replacement S/N Tag.

[Farmallhal]

I am restoring a Farmall 240 and have a replacement s/n tag I obtained to replace the original rather battered original. I was very careful when I removed the old tag in removing only the original brass rivet material and didn't enlarge the holes in the cast bell housing. The rivets that came with the new tag bottom out on the cast iron where the tag goes and are longer then the original holes drilled into the bell housing decades ago. Also, the holes are slightly larger in diameter then the rivets. My question since I have never installed a replacement tag if you hit the rivet with an impact device will the rivet swell from the compression since it rests on heavy cast and fill the hole retaining the s/n plate to the tractor? If this isn't the case how are these tags secured to the tractor. Any advice or hints for a proper installation will be most appreciated, Hal.
 

[DScott]

Hal,
Without seeing it it is hard to say exactly. Based on what you are saying I think I would shorten the rivet and put something in the existing hole to shim it tight, maybe even epoxy it. If you force the rivet in it may bust through the casting if it's thin behind the hole. Most of those type rivets I have dealt with are very hard and would not "swell" easily.
That's my thoughts.
 

[rustyfarmall]

I think I would be tempted to shorten the rivets so they don't bottom out, and then put a little dab of JB weld down in the hole.

Another thought. The serial tags on BOTH my 1940 M and 1940 H are held on with threaded screws. The screws have slotted heads for a screwdriver. Both appear to be original because the number on the plate matches the number on the engine exactly.
 

[souNdguy]

use drive rivits...
 

[Dean Olson]

Directions with my new replacement tag said to fill old holes. Then off set new tag slightly, mark and drill new holes the correct size for the new rivets. They provided the correct drill bit size info.
 

[Farmallhal]

Went to Fastenal today and they ordered the correct size drive screws (both in length and diameter) for my new tag and the existing holes in the tractor where the old ones were drilled out. They seemed to know exactly what I wanted and what they were and will be here Monday. Thanks much for your comments and have a great Thanksgiving day with those very special to you, Hal.