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A Step-By-Step Guide to Applying Automotive Christmas Tree Fasteners
Christmas tree clips offer a simple way to attach many different components. They are great for trim pieces, weatherstripping, and even tethered gas caps. Automotive Xmas tree fasteners are also incredibly easy to use.
Types of Automotive Xmas Tree Fasteners
There are three main types of Xmas tree fasteners based on fin design: angled, straight, and curved fins. Angles fin clips are best for pieces that need to be firmly attached without concern about future removal. Straight fin clips offer a profile that is easier to install and remove while still offering reliable retention.
How To Apply Xmas Tree Clips
1. Drill a Hole in the Material
Xmas tree fasteners must be inserted in an existing hole, so your first step is to drill one into the materials you are working with. If there is already a hole you can skip this step. Additionally, if you are replacing an old clip, you'll need to remove it before moving forward. Gently pry the head up and pull it out of the hole.
2. Choose the Correct Size and Style of Clip
You can purchase automotive Xmas tree fasteners in a variety of sizes for virtually any application. You want a stem that fits snugly in the intended hole but that isn't too large that it gets damaged during insertion.
Clip sizes typically range from 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch, although they are available outside that range. Some are manufacturer-specific, so be sure to stock a good assortment for the cars you work on most. Others are more generic within the automotive industry and can be used in many different cars as long as they are sized correctly.
As mentioned earlier, the three main styles of fins affect performance. You want to choose one that is suitable for your application. If you are attaching something that requires secure and consistent retention, such as a brake line retaining clip, then you want to use an angled or curved fin. However, if you are working with a lightweight trim piece or something you plan to remove in the near future, you might be better off with a straight fin clip.
3. Insert the Clip Firmly Through Both Layers of Material
You'll likely insert most Xmas tree clips by hand. They push into a predrilled hole in the material you are fastening. In some situations, you may need to use a mallet to fully seat the fastener.
Automotive Xmas tree fasteners require different levels of force to insert them. The exact amount can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the materials it is inserted into (thickness, density, etc.), the size of the hole and clip, and the fin design. As a result, some fasteners only need 30 pounds of force to insert. Others may require as much as 175 pounds of pressure.
In-Stock Xmas Tree Clips
ROGO Fastener has supplied automotive shops with premium parts and tools for over 30 years. We have the experience and knowledge to help you find the right parts for any job. Shop the online store for a full selection of automotive Xmas tree fasteners or reach out for information about a specific part.
Sources:
https://www.assemblymag.com/articles/85900-fastening-christmas-trees-ain-t-just-for-december