Mandrel Collector (43-72-2557) vs Mandrel Stopper (49-16-2661LBS)
Our Technicians have been using the Milwaukee M18 Rivet Tool (2660-20) for more than 2 years. It continues to provide solid performance, as well as the improved efficiency that comes with not dealing with an air hose. The only issue we’ve had with the riveter was a broken mandrel collector that resulted from the tool falling out of a trailer.
Sidenote: Our shop is no stranger to broken mandrel collectors. It doesn’t matter what brand of riveter we are using, the mandrel collector is always the first thing to break. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve declared that I will no longer purchase replacement mandrel collectors. In all fairness, I meant it every time I said it. But the truth is, I just can’t stand seeing tools patched up with duct tape. That is exactly how every broken mandrel collector ends up. So, I continue to give in and purchase replacements.
Mandrel Collector (43-72-2557)
Like every other riveter we have used, the Mandrel Collector on Milwaukee’s M18 Rivet Tool was quick to break. And the replacement part (43-72-2557) has been very difficult to find. While I can’t confirm this yet, I suspect that Milwaukee is no longer offering the original Mandrel Collector. But don’t worry… The Mandrel Stopper (49-16-2661LBS) is available.
Mandrel Stopper (49-16-2661LBS)
We began using the Mandrel Stopper several months ago. I am very happy to report that it is a major improvement over the original Mandrel Collector.
Why we think the Mandrel Stopper is Better?
Connection Method:
Mandrel Collector: Connects to the tool via locking tabs. These are obvious weak points in the design. In fact, a locking tab is what broke on the Mandrel Collector that came with our Rivet Tool.
Mandrel Stopper: Screws onto the tool. This connection method feels much more secure than the locking tabs.
Material:
Mandrel Collector: The cup portion is made of plastic that isn’t overly forgiving of impacts. A dropped riveter can easily result in a broken Mandrel Collector.
Mandrel Stopper: The cup portion is made of flexible rubber that is very forgiving of impacts. A dropped riveter will likely not cause any damage to the Mandrel Stopper.
Other Considerations
While the original Mandrel Collector collects the spent mandrels, the Mandrel Stopper does not. The opening on the Stopper allows each mandrel to fall to the floor.
Specs and Features
- Product: M18 FUEL Blind Rivet & Lockbolt Mandrel Stopper
- Part: 49-16-2661LBS
- Length: 2.22 in
- Weight: 0.95 lb
- Height: 2.36 in
- Width: 2.36 in
- Material Composition: Polycarbonate
- Compatible with both 2661 M18 FUEL™ 1/4″ Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY™ and 2660 M18 FUEL™ 1/4″ Blind Rivet Tool w/ ONE-KEY™
- Allows for greater access into tight spaces as the rubber material can mold and adapt.
- Increased productivity by eliminating need to empty the Mandrel Collector
- Eliminates additional weight on tool as mandrels will be dropped instead of collected at the back of the tool
- Easy Screw in and Out of Tool
- Made of Durable Materials
Final Thoughts
Most rivet tool buyers probably won’t give much thought to the type of Mandrel Collector/Stopper that is on a riveter. But trust me… constantly having to replace Mandrel Collectors is frustrating and adds a lot to a riveter’s total cost of ownership. So far, Milwaukee’s Rivet Stopper has proven to be extremely durable.
Review Updates
Updates to this review can be found on its Product Page.
- Product Page: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/4″ Blind Rivet Tool