How to Drill Rivets and Open a Diecast Car Safely
How to Drill Rivets and Open a Diecast Car Safely — a practical, South-Africa-tested guide. No theory you cannot use: the tools, the steps, the mistakes, and what it all costs in rand.
Before You Start
Every collector who masters customising started exactly where you are. The difference between a good result and a ruined piece is preparation: the right tools, a practice subject you do not care about, and patience. If you are working on anything valuable, practice on a R20 mainline first — the glossary explains any unfamiliar terms below.
Tools and Supplies (and Where to Get Them in SA)
- Basic toolkit — hobby knife, small screwdrivers, needle files and cutting mat; hardware and hobby shops countrywide stock these.
- Consumables — source locally where possible; the SA shopping directory lists hobby suppliers.
- Protection — work over a tray, wear eye protection for drilling or cutting, and keep solvents away from display shelves.
- Reference photos — photograph the piece before you touch it; ‘before’ photos settle arguments and guide reassembly.
Step by Step
Work in this order: inspect, plan, practice, execute, evaluate. Rushing any step is how customising projects go wrong. For technique-specific detail, cross-reference the related guides in the network block below — each one covers its own ground in the same practical style. And if a piece turns out to be worth serious money (check the SA price index first), consider whether DIY is the right call at all.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Working on a valuable piece before practising on a cheap one.
- Using brute force where patience was needed — plastic and ZAMAC both punish impatience.
- Skipping the ‘before’ photos.
- Not checking value first — some pieces are worth more untouched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is customising difficult for beginners?
Not with practice. Start on cheap mainline cars, follow the steps in order, and expect your first attempts to be learning exercises rather than showpieces.
What tools do I need?
A basic hobby toolkit covers most work: craft knife, small screwdrivers, files and a cutting mat. Specialised jobs need specialised tools — each guide lists exactly what is required.
Will this affect my diecast’s value?
Yes — modifications and amateur repairs usually reduce collector value. Check the SA price index before altering anything, and never practise on rare pieces.
Where do I get supplies in South Africa?
Hobby shops, hardware chains and online suppliers stock everything needed. The SA shopping directory lists suppliers by category.