[Kevin in NJ]

I used the kick rivet machine that is used for riveting the lining to the shoes. It does a real nice controlled rollover. You can see in the picture.

The shape you need is a tapered rollover. Not sure the vice grip is what you want to use. They come at an arc and only produce power in a small region. You might do better to make a holder on your vice for the anvil and upset tool and then you can do a controlled squeeze.

I know the hammer method is more likely to cause the rivet to split or so it seemed when I used that method before we got the kick riveter.

Too bad you are way up north of me. It would take about 10 minutes for us to do your hood panels. I am at exit 36.