What is the first step in removing rivets from the assembly?

The first step in removing rivets from an assembly involves marking and removing the rivet head. This is a critical initial action because it ensures that the rivet can be effectively accessed for subsequent removal steps. By carefully marking the rivet head, the mechanic may also highlight the exact location for drilling, ensuring precision and minimizing damage to the surrounding material.

Proper marking helps in identifying whether the rivet is solid or blind, which influences the technique for removal. Once the head is marked and removed, the next logical step involves drilling out the rivet to detach it completely from the assembly. It sets the stage for a clean and efficient removal process.

The other options, while relevant to the overall process of rivet removal, do not represent the very first action that should be taken. Inspection might precede the removal process as a general practice, but when focusing specifically on rivet removal, the initial focus should be on the rivet itself. Similarly, using a bucking bar is a technique often associated with the installation rather than the removal of rivets. Thus, marking and removing the head is the foundational first step for a successful rivet extraction.