Circlip Pliers

Before I splash out on a decent set of circlip pliers I have a question.

I have a very large internal circlip to remove from a motorised gearbox.

The clip is about 2.5" dia and the two pin holes for removing the clip are about 0.1"dia on a pitch of 7/8".

Would the pliers in a standard set be capable of removing a clip this size or would I have to go for one of the larger sets?

Len. P.

I was faced with a similar problem a few years ago and, as it was a one-off job, didn't want to splash out on circlip pliers. Bought the cheapest pair of long-nosed pliers I could find in a DIY shed, heat bent the tips and filed them to the right profile, then re-hardened them. Worked a treat!

You should be able to find wire forming pliers (the ones with round tapered jaws) these will probably do the job

Paul

Mike,

I've spent so much time in my life improvising tools that I thought I'd treat myself for a change as I'm now running out of time!!!

Come to think of it I am continually treating myself according to her indoors.

My grandson will no doubt feel happier no when he gets all of my proper tools eventually.

I don't think youngsters will know how to improvise until they have got a bit of time and experience under their belts.

Len. P.

Edited By The Merry Miller on 14/05/2012 17:35:00

I have a pair of circlip pliers which I purchased from CPC for £1.99 and they work fine up to almost an inch. I never needed larger ones but they might be worth a look.

It is possible to buy a set of circlip pliers that do both internal and external clips and they come with a set of different size pins.

These can be bought from motor tool factors, as you can guess they would be invaluable to a motor mechanic and any other engineer needing circlip pliers.

I think I got mine from Sealey's.

Clive

I've gone for the Sealey set Clive.

Len.

Don't know how it managed to double post?

Len.

Edited By The Merry Miller on 14/05/2012 20:07:52

There are shedloads of both types going on fleabay for pennies.

On a clip that size I would use a small screwdriver or similar to start the key out of the groove and confirm that it is free. Usually can then "peel" the clip out without the pliers, should use a new clip anyway.

I tried to get it out that way Gordon, half successful due to very limited access and help from the missus!!

Len.