Internal Retaining Ring Tool

BenH · Oct 30, 2013

I am in the process of removing the steering cylinder on my Kubota L5030 for repair. I am in need of a good internal retaining ring tool. The one I have, which is one from Harbor Freight will not compress the ring enough to remove it. Any recommendations for a tool that will work? I think the retaining clip will accept around a .126 tip. I just don't want to keep trying with inadequate tools and maybe damaging the clip. Then I would be in a serious bind.

The retaining clip I am attempting to remove is the one that secures the steering cylinder into the axle housing rings that the cylinder slides into.

Thanks for any suggestions.
Ben

Rayster · Oct 30, 2013

Napa used to sell a very nice unit that was internal and external with different angle and pin(size) inserts. Google "snap ring pliers", lots of hits.

I would think any "quality" tool dealer would be able to get you one. I think mine cost was about $85, but they are 17 years old now and still work very well.

BenH · Oct 31, 2013

Thanks Rayster,
I did Google "snap ring pliers" and there are plenty to look at. The problem is that I have no idea which will work. The ones I have are either too flimsy or just will not compress the internal ring enough to remove it. I will keep looking for a quality tool that will compress the ring enough to remove.

Much appreciated.
Ben

Rayster · Oct 31, 2013

There is a set of internal only at MATCO TOOLS. Maybe you can get on the phone and call some of the tool companies.

BenH · Oct 31, 2013

Thanks, I will check it out.

Rayster said:
There is a set of internal only at MATCO TOOLS. Maybe you can get on the phone and call some of the tool companies.

Bird · Oct 31, 2013

Some years ago, I finally threw away the junk snap ring tools I got from the Homier traveling tool sale, when I got a set of Matco tools for both internal and external rings.

Zebrafive · Oct 31, 2013

I've had good luck with this style tool.

Baby Grand · Oct 31, 2013

I've been real happy with several snap ring plier made by KD & bought from local NAPA stores. They weren't cheap, but they've lasted and lasted and work fine. Different types & sizes are required for different size & type snap rings. Some are tiny & slender while some are big & require a lot of force to deform. Example: old typewriter (?!?) vs truck transmission.

https://www.google.com/search?q=kd+snap+ring+plier&safe=active&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-Address&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=4IhyUsTuGqj_4AO954HYAQ&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAQ&biw=1044&bih=909

BenH · Oct 31, 2013

I will be checking the local NAPA store as well as a few other stores today. The snap ring I am removing is pretty stiff and set into a deep slot so it has to be compressed completely to be removed. This is a picture of the ring….

kw22614 · Oct 31, 2013

Snap ring pliers is the common name for the tool. As others here have said you can buy a quality name and pay a quality price or, because this tool doesn't get used that often unless you're in the business, I recommend buying any brand but get a pair that's at least 8" or bigger. The bigger size will give you the power you need to get off the most stubborn snap ring. If possible, get one with 2 holes in the body so you can use it as both an inner and outter ring tool. Sears would be a good place to find one reasonably priced. Good luck...