Bicycle Mechanics - Procedure to remove a circlip/snap ring

I tried to create an instructional diagram to help future generations deal with the nuisance of 'snap rings'. I'm pretty new to them myself, and not sure of the proper procedure; all I know is that my current diagram is wrong, or at least wont work for the snap ring that I own. I thought that the circlip could be removed by levering with a screwdriver. Could someone take a look at the diagram and suggest what changes need to be made? Thanks.

Diagram (http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Snapring_or_circlip_extraction_from_bicycle_hub.svg)

Most snap rings require the use of snap ring pliers to remove/install.

There are normally two small holes at either end of the clip, which is where you grip the snap ring with the pliers.

http://images.google.com/url?q=http://www.naval.com/tube-amp/snapring.jpg&usg=AFQjCNFn4D3iQiy4kfGYqRNH4YPnwV2EFQ

And yes, snap rings are no fun. You definitely got that part correct.

How curious. My snap ring actually has no holes - it's actually no thicker than the metal used to make a keyring so doesn't have room for any. Perhaps two diagrams will be necessary...

Very interesting. I've only seen snap rings with holes, both on bikes and my car.

The OP may be referring to one that holds the cog in place on a coaster brake hub or internal gear hub. I've always just jammed smallish straight blade screwdriver through one of the slots, and prying it out away from myself. I use the same screwdriver to put it back on as well. This post is useless without pictures.

That style circlip: Pry with a very thin but strong bladed screwdriver (or knife).

Internal and external snap-rings (ears): use the snap-ring special tool

your diagram - insert an awl or screwdriver in the top v-notch and lever it on up just like you're showing

A poor mechanic always blames his tools or

lack thereof.


Regards,
J T

They make pliers just for those,but you should be able to do it with a pick and a small screwdriver.

Have I found a picture of pliers designed for snap-rings without holes?

http://www.wkhagertymfgco.com/RL1N.htm/KDB%20Tools.jpg

Just go out and buy the right tools. One version, available just about everywhere, can be configured to do both internal and external snap rings [the kind with holes].

Another commonly available tool is designed for those that have no holes.

Neither tool costs much more than a fattening lunch at McDonalds.

DON