Snap ring pliers are a specialized type of pliers designed specifically for installing and removing snap rings, which are circular fasteners used to secure parts in place. There are two main types of snap ring pliers – internal and external. Both types are designed to compress or expand snap rings to allow installation and removal.
What is a Snap Ring?
Before getting into the types of snap ring pliers, it’s important to understand exactly what a snap ring is and how it works. A snap ring, also known as a retaining ring or circlip, is a semi-flexible fastener that wraps around a groove or slot on a shaft or in a housing. The ring’s gap allows it to contract or expand slightly to fit into the groove. Once installed, the tension of the ring keeps it firmly in place.
Snap rings come in two main varieties – internal and external. An internal snap ring fits into a machined groove on the inside of a bore or housing. An external snap ring fits into a groove on the outer diameter of a shaft or rod. In both cases, the ring essentially becomes a lip that prevents parts from sliding past the groove location. This allows snap rings to securely hold components in place axially without the need for threading, pins, screws or gluing.
Internal Snap Ring Pliers
Internal snap ring pliers are designed to install and remove internal snap rings. They look similar to needle nose pliers, but have specialized tips to grip and manipulate internal rings. There are a few key features that enable internal pliers to work effectively:
- Tips curve inward – The jaws curve inward so they can fit into the ID of a bore.
- Fine tip width – The tips are narrow to fit into tight spaces and grip the thin cross section of snap rings.
- Bent tips – The tips are bent at 90 degrees which allows better access to rings positioned deep in bores.
- Spreading mechanism – Special handles or pins that allow the tips to be spread apart so they can push the snap ring into the groove.
To use internal snap ring pliers, the tips are fed into the bore and positioned so they grip the ring’s outer diameter. The handles are squeezed to compress the ring into the groove. Once released, the ring tension keeps it seated in place. This same process is done in reverse to spread the ring for removal.
Straight vs. Bent Jaw Internal Pliers
There are two main jaw types for internal pliers – straight and bent. Straight jaws allow better access in wider, shallow bores. Bent jaws are better for fitting into deep, narrow bores since they can reach the snap ring more easily. Most snap ring plier kits include both types to allow use in any application.
Fixed vs. Interchangeable Tips
Some internal pliers have fixed, non-removable tips, while others feature interchangeable tips that can be switched out. Interchangeable tips allow switching to different tip widths or angles to access snap rings in different situations. This added flexibility makes them more versatile for a wider range of applications.
External Snap Ring Pliers
External snap ring pliers work in a similar fashion but are designed to install and remove external snap rings. Here are the key design features of external pliers:
- Tips curve outward – The jaws are bent outward to fit around the OD of a shaft or rod.
- Longer tips – Tips are longer to provide better reach around an external ring.
- Opening mechanism – Special pins or handles that spread the tips apart to expand the snap ring.
- Purpose-built tips – Tips are optimized for gripping the cross-section of external rings.
To use external pliers, the tips are positioned so they surround the ring’s inner diameter. When the handles are squeezed, it spreads the tips apart, expanding the snap ring so it can be removed or installed. Releasing the handles allows the natural tension of the ring to snap it back into the groove.
Straight vs. Bent External Pliers
As with internal pliers, external pliers also come in straight and bent variations. Straight jaws allow better visibility and are preferred for rings positioned close to the end of a shaft. Bent jaws provide easier access to snap rings nestled closer to shoulders or housings.
Fixed vs. Interchangeable Tips
Some external pliers also offer interchangeable tips. This provides flexibility to switch to different tip lengths, widths or angles for specific jobs. Pliers with removable tips are more versatile since they can adapt to many snap ring sizes and locations.
Combination Snap Ring Pliers
For added convenience, combination snap ring pliers provide both internal and external functionality in a single tool. There are a few common combination designs:
- Reversible jaws – Jaws can be flipped to switch between internal and external use.
- Convertible handles – Handles detach and swap positions to switch plier modes.
- Dual-sided jaws – Jaws have internal grips on one side and external grips on the reverse side.
Combination pliers provide the versatility to handle both internal and external snap rings without needing separate tools. The ability to convert from one mode to another quickly saves significant time when working with multiple ring types.
What Materials are Snap Ring Pliers Made From?
Most snap ring pliers are made from hardened steel for strength and durability. Here are some of the common varieties used:
- Tool steel – A general term for steels used in tool manufacturing, usually with medium to high carbon content.
- Chrome vanadium steel – Alloy steel with additions of chromium and vanadium for hardness and wear resistance.
- Chrome molybdenum steel – Alloy steel with chromium and molybdenum to increase tensile strength.
- High carbon steel – Simple carbon steel with around 0.60-1.00% carbon content for strength.
The use of alloy and high carbon steels ensures pliers can withstand high pressures when compressing and expanding snap rings. They resist bending and deformation that could lead to failure.
Some pliers also have cushioned plastic or rubber coated handles. This provides a comfortable grip and absorbs impacts from snap rings.
What are the Key Features of Snap Ring Pliers?
Here are some of the design features that allow snap ring pliers to efficiently install and remove snap rings:
- Specialized tips – Tips are engineered to grip snap rings securely while minimizing damage to the rings.
- Spring-loaded action – Helps the handles return to the open position automatically after each squeeze.
- Locking mechanism – A catch that holds the handles in the closed position to allow compressing or spreading the plier tips under sustained force.
- Rotating pivot – The pivot point turns as the handles are closed, improving mechanical advantage.
- Interchangeable tips – Allows changing out tips for different snap ring sizes or styles.
- Ergonomic grip – Non-slip cushioned handles provide comfort and minimize hand fatigue.
Premium snap ring pliers will integrate some or all of these features to deliver the best performance and usability.
What are the Advantages of Using Snap Ring Pliers?
Here are some of the benefits of using dedicated snap ring pliers rather than makeshift tools:
- Faster installation/removal – Specialized tips grip rings better to reduce slippage and fumbling.
- Lower risk of damage – Precise control reduces chance of distorting or scratching parts.
- Increased safety – Proper tools decrease chance of hands slipping or rings flying off.
- Greater force application – Compound leverage allows high compression/expansion pressures.
- Extended reach – Long jaws provide improved access to confined spaces.
- Enhanced durability – Hardened steel construction withstands constant high strain.
- More versatility – Interchangeable tips adapt tools to different snap ring sizes.
- Improved ergonomics – Comfortable grips reduce hand strain and fatigue.
While pliers may cost more than improvised tools, the benefits they provide typically outweigh the added cost.
What Types of Jobs Use Snap Ring Pliers?
Here are some common applications where snap ring pliers are the preferred tool for installing and removing snap rings:
- Automotive – Transmissions, clutches, engine internals, axles, brakes.
- Aviation and aerospace – Aircraft landing gear, engine assemblies, hydraulic actuators.
- Construction equipment – Crawler tracks, bobcat loader attachments, backhoe pins.
- General machinery – Pumps, presses, conveyors, compressors.
- Farm and garden equipment – Tillers, shredders, lawn mower blades.
- HVAC and plumbing – Pipe clamps, duct fasteners, pump impellers.
- Marine and boating – Outboard motors, steering systems, dock hardware.
Any task that involves installing or taking apart machinery with snap rings will benefit from using proper snap ring pliers. They speed up repairs and maintenance while minimizing equipment damage.
Differences Between Snap Ring Pliers and Other Pliers
There are a few key differences between snap ring pliers and standard needle nose, channel lock or slip joint pliers:
| Snap Ring Pliers | Standard Pliers |
|---|---|
| Specialized inward or outward facing tips | Straight tips better suited for gripping and bending |
| Strong opener and closer mechanism | No special opening/closing mechanism |
| Usually single purpose tools | General purpose utility pliers |
| Spring loaded for self-opening | No spring return action |
| Hardened steel construction | May use softer varieties of steel |
While standard pliers can sometimes be jury-rigged for snap ring installation, they lack the purpose-built features that make the task much easier and safer. For regular snap ring work, dedicated pliers are worth the investment.
Choosing the Right Snap Ring Pliers
Here are some tips for choosing good quality snap ring pliers suited for your purposes:
- Select based on snap ring size – Larger rings require longer plier tips.
- Consider combination pliers – Combine internal and external functionality.
- Choose interchangeable tips – Provides flexibility for different jobs.
- Look for spring loading – Automated self-opening action speeds up work.
- Check handle quality – Cushioned, anti-slip grips prevent hand fatigue.
- Buy from reputable brands – Companies like Knipex, Irwin, and Wilde are reliable options.
- Read online reviews – Research feedback from experienced mechanics and technicians.
- Compare prices – Higher cost often indicates better quality.
Investing in good tools saves time, effort, and frustration down the road. With snap ring pliers, sturdiness, leverage, and ease of use should be top priorities.
Maintaining Snap Ring Pliers
Snap ring pliers are built tough but still require some care. Here are some tips for keeping pliers in good operating condition:
- Lubricate joints periodically – Apply a light machine oil to the pivot points.
- Clean tips with solvent – Remove built-up gunk and prevent tip slippage.
- Inspect tips for wear – Replace excessively rounded or flattened tips.
- Store to prevent rust – Keep pliers clean, dry, and stored with a light coat of oil.
- Avoid bending tips – Repeated bending can weaken the precision ground tips.
- Protect handles – Don’t use pliers as a hammer and avoid solvents that can degrade handles.
Well-maintained pliers provide many years of smooth, dependable service. Periodic inspection coupled with preventative care helps maximize their working lifespan.
Conclusion
Snap ring pliers are essential tools for the installation and removal of internal and external snap rings. Their specialized inward and outward facing tips provide the leverage and precision necessary to safely apply force and expand or compress snap rings during assembly and disassembly procedures. While improvised tools can sometimes get the job done, snap ring pliers are purpose-built for the task and help avoid damage or injury. For anyone who works frequently with equipment containing snap rings, a good set of internal and external snap ring pliers is a wise investment that pays dividends over time.