The Dzus fastener system provides a method for quickly securing and releasing body panels. Installation involves welding a plate to the mounting surface, securing a spring with pop rivets, and then using a button to lock the panel in place with a quarter-turn. This document details the installation process based on available documentation.
System Components and Hardware
The Dzus system requires several components for proper installation. Documentation specifies the need for a Dzus plate, a button, and a spring. The installation process also requires specific hardware and tools.
Hardware requirements include:
- Dzus plate
- Spring (2 1/8" x 3/16" steel pop rivets for permanent installation)
- Steel pop rivets
Tools required for installation are not fully detailed in the provided documentation, but the process implies the need for tools to:
- Weld the plate to the mounting surface.
- Drill out aluminum pop rivets.
- Insert and turn the Dzus button.
Plate Preparation and Welding
The initial step in the installation process involves preparing and welding the Dzus plate to the mounting surface. The documentation recommends bending the plate approximately 1/4" from the bottom at an angle between 30° and 45°. This bend allows the panel to sit flush against the plate without contacting the weld bead, resulting in a cleaner installation. The plate is then welded to the mounting surface.
Spring Installation
Following the plate welding, the spring must be installed. The documentation details a two-step process for spring installation. First, aluminum pop rivets are drilled out. Then, the spring is permanently installed using 2 1/8" x 3/16" steel pop rivets. The documentation notes that final spring installation is typically performed after the mounting surface has been painted.
Button Installation and Operation
The final step involves installing the Dzus button and securing the panel. The panel, with its dimpled side facing the plate, is positioned against the plate. The Dzus button is then inserted and turned a quarter-turn to secure the panel to the mounting surface. The documentation highlights that the button requires only a 1/4 turn to achieve a positive lock. A front and back view of a properly installed FO style button assembly is provided as a visual reference.
Installation Instructions Summary
The installation process can be summarized as follows:
- Weld the Dzus plate to the mounting surface, ensuring a 30° to 45° bend approximately 1/4" from the bottom.
- Drill out any existing aluminum pop rivets.
- Permanently install the spring using 2 1/8" x 3/16" steel pop rivets, ideally after painting the mounting surface.
- Position the panel with the dimpled side against the plate.
- Insert the Dzus button and turn it a quarter-turn to secure the panel.
Conclusion
The Dzus fastener system offers a quick and secure method for attaching body panels. Proper installation requires careful preparation of the mounting surface, correct spring installation with steel pop rivets, and a simple quarter-turn operation of the Dzus button. The system provides a positive lock when installed correctly.