Was planning on installing new hubcap clips on a set of smoothies this week, most of the old clips were broken so I went through and drilled them all out. I am unsure of how to go about doing it - I have read about the rivet method and some people have talked about just welding them on.

I would prefer to rivet them on (since I can do that in my garage) but does anyone have any experience with either? I would also need the rivet tool like the one below, anyone on the southeast side want to help out?

We used clips that attached with a small nut and bolt. They seem to work well. Kostya, do you have details?

I would just rivet them.

I'm leaning on the factory type rivet method but I was hoping to find someone who could loan me that tool for an afternoon. Backing plates and bolts should work but its tough to make sure it will fit well with the clip (the fancy tool has the cut-out for the clip to sit in)

I would suggest riveting them instead of welding

Mine are bolted in, they work great and will be easy to replace if one should ever break. Use small stainless flat heads and countersink the rim (on the drum side) so the head of the bolt sits flush. Then use a stainless lock nut on the outside.

i would use bubblegum to attach them

Alright, tried the welds (didn't look too good), the old style rivet (pain in the butt), the pop rivet didn't hold it tight at all, so I picked up a set of countersunk machine screws with lock nuts that I think should do the trick. After the wheels come out of paint I'll throw them on with some photos. Thanks for all the inputs!