[rich b]

I like to grind a flat on the head of the rivet, then center punch head, drill a hole slightly less then the rivet diameter to the depth of the head and first layer of metal, switch to a rivet diameter drill, drill thru the head thickness, knock the rivet's head off, then take a pin punch the diameter of the first drill and drive out the rivet, supporting the back as needed.

When the rivets were initially installed, they swelled to fill any misalignment between the layers being rivetted.

Works smooth and eliminates deforming the parts and is less frustrating than excessive pounding.

If not installing the crossmember with rivets, I usually choose bolts with unthreaded shanks close to the length being fastened, shortening the excess threaded length, drilling (or reaming) the holes for a tight fit, and lightly driving the bolts in place.