Why do they use unfriendly circlips to retain piston pins rather than a more friendly internal snap ring? Any tips for installing the circlips? Can I use an internal snap ring instead? Does anyone know part numbers?

 

snap rings have a very nasty habit of popping out,the wire rings are a lot better,i install one before putting the piston on the rod and simply squeeze the other in,never had a problem,they go right in

 

Kramm-Lox circlips are showing up with a lot of pistons now. I installed mine on my CP pistons. They were still a bit of a bit_h at first but got the hang of them, there are you-tube videos to help. The biggest problem is the tiny install tool they give you, it does not provide much leverage, they sell a better tool for a few bucks - I will buy it if I use them again.

 

Why do they use them? Because the work. Snap rings aren't as secure. If one style is is easier to remove/install then it easier for it to come out accidentally.

Installing them is very strait forward. It's about the starting location in relation to the notch. I usually start installing the clip so it is just past the notch, working toward the top of the piston and around so you use the notch and a small screw driver in the notch to ease that last part into place.

Do not over flex the clip. also I use a small pocket style screwdriver that has had all the sharp edges sanded smooth. do not put any nicks of any kind in the clip.

And, no you can't put a square edge snap ring in a grove for a round cir clip.

 

just start them past the notch and use a 3/8 extension use the end where the socket fits on. position it with the square having the pointed portion is against circle clip and walk it around, clip snaps right in place with little effort

 

Use the circlips that are supplied with the pistons. If you think circlips are a PITA, don't ever use JE pistons with the spiral ring retainers.