I use the reproduction riveting tools, and the Hobby Horse made arbor press, which really is no different than your set up George. I think it’s the quality of the rivets themselves, rather than your technique. I’ve split many rebuilding old Lionel stuff. One trick I’ve done over the years with good success on something important that matters, is to lubricate the tooling for the smash. This has helped. I just use a dab of grease and a small paint brush. I find the grease is easier to clean up when I’m done. See what works for you, ….there are actual specialized lubricants for press work. When my dad had his shop, and his original Lionel tool set, he’d keep a bar of Ivory soap near the press, as he swore that made a difference…….
Pat
