People usually prefer to use snap ring pliers, in any case if they want to install snap rings or remove them. Let’s define what snap ring pliers are.
Let’s begin, that it is a specialized type of pliers with a small notch at the end of the jaws. This characteristic allows them to fit over the snap ring and it is easier to hold it in place when you want both to install or remove it. They also have a pointed end. Besides, it can be inserted into the snap ring, and they also have a comfortable grip that also makes it easier to twist the snap ring open or closed.
Besides, snap rings are thin metal bands with holes in the middle that people can install around a shaft or other object. People often use them in machinery and other equipment to hold parts in place.
What type of snap ring pliers do people prefer?
Nowadays, there are three most common snap ring pliers, such as internal and external snap ring pliers, and circlip pliers. Each of them has a different shape and of course each of them is better suited for a specific application. Let’s consider the first one, internal snap ring pliers are used to install or remove rings located inside a hole in the object they’re being used on. The next type, external snap ring pliers, people use to install or remove rings located on the outside of an object. Finally, Circlip pliers install or remove rings located in a groove outside an object.
People also define a few other different types of snap ring pliers, including parallel jaw and the split ring types. The parallel jaw type has two jaws that open and close together, while the split ring type has a V-shaped notch in one of the jaws that allows you to pry open a snap ring. Both of these types are usually spring-loaded, which means that they automatically open after you release the ring.
What about different sizes? What size do people usually use?
First of all, let’s consider that people can come across three main sizes of snap ring pliers on the market. So, there you can find small, medium, and large pliers. For example, people use small snap ring pliers in order to install or remove rings that diameter up to 3/8 inch. As for medium snap ring pliers, they are often used to install or remove rings with a diameter of up to 1 inch. Finally, people usually use large snap ring pliers to install or remove rings with a diameter of up to 2 inches.
How can I use snap ring pliers?
The first step is to identify what snap ring you need to remove. When you have located it, you should use the appropriate-sized snap ring pliers to remove it. Obviously make sure that the pliers are positioned. So that the jaws are parallel to the snap ring’s diameter. Next, carefully squeeze the handles together to pinch the snap ring and pull it out. If the snap ring is stubborn and doesn’t want to come out, use a hammer and a chisel to gently tap on the pliers until the snap ring pops out.
If you want to install a snap ring, you should pierce it with a sharp point. When your ring is pierced, you can use the notch to hold it in place and then use the pliers to twist the ring until it is fully installed.
Is there any other way to install or remove the snap ring?
Yes, in general there are a few other ways that people can use, if they want to install or remove a snap ring. One of such methods is using a pair of snap ring pliers, as it was already mentioned.
Another option is using a screwdriver. This method involves using the screwdriver in order to pry the snap ring open and then remove it from the shaft.
Finally, sometimes people try to use a hammer and chisel. However, such a method can be dangerous if done incorrectly, so it is not recommended for most people.
If it isn’t comfortable for you to use previously mentioned snap ring pliers, you can also try to use a screwdriver.
So, if your purpose is to remove a snap ring with a screwdriver, firstly you must pierce it with a sharp point. When your ring is pierced, use the screwdriver to twist it until it is entirely removed.
In the other case, particularly if you want to install a snap ring with a screwdriver, you must first pierce it with a sharp point. When the ring is pierced, use the screwdriver to push it into place until it is fully installed.
