Seat Frames

[Chris KC]

I have just taken apart a (Ruby) seat which looked to be in original condition; the woodwork was rather firmly fixed to the metal of the seat with steel bifurcated rivets which appeared to have been driven directly into the wood (without any pilot holes etc.)

Is anyone able to confirm this was the original fixing method? And more to the point has anyone succeeded in re-assembling using the same method? Or have others successfully substituted other fixings? - I guess woodscrews would be the most obvious choice.

Any experience welcomed...

Thanks
Chris