Help with Snap Ring Replacement on Levers
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Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Florida
Help with Snap Ring Replacement on Levers
Just put a new set of levers on (chrome brake and clutch). Used a pair of snap ring pliers to get the original snap rings off. Immediately noted that I should have bought two new rings as replacements as one became distorted when I removed it. Tried to put the good one back on using the snap ring pliers and I apparently distorted that one in the process too (plus I was not able to get it back into place anyway). Will buy several new ones, but I am looking for suggestions/tips as to how to best get the new ones on without ruining them. Assume that maybe I should not use the snap ring pliers for the reinstall? Any help appreciated.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,890
Likes: 73
From: MA
Using the right size pliers is a must and not saying that you didn't. As for distorting the rings, you can easily reshape them if you haven't twisted them too far out of shape. Once in the groove they should conform to the groove. As for not using the pliers to reinstall the rings, it can be a Royal PITA.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 868
Likes: 51
From: Illinois
I replace them when I reinstall. I use snap ring piers to install. I put snap ring on pliers put snap ring up to pin and just open snap ring enough to get on pin and slide the rest of the way by hand.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 15
From: Pacific Northwest
Mine always seem to distort even when I'm careful not to over-expand them when removing. I've never lost or replaced one but dropping one on the floor makes for some real fun. I close them back to their original size before re-installing the clip and I make sure they're closed all the way afterward by pinching the ends together with needle-nose pliers. Note: It's VERY easy to pinch a nice blood blister into your finger while doing this part (mine's healed now).
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 3,806
Likes: 281
From: Green Country Oklahoma
+ 1 just use my fingers too snap tool too high tech and takes too long any thing takes too long I lost interest in it.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 2,049
Likes: 6
From: Oregon City, OR
Best thing I have found was a cheap 4 piece set of small snap ring pliers off the Snap-On truck. Cost like $7.95 and 2 sets have a 90 degree tip (the other 2 are straight). They are the perfect size for the lever snap rings and the angle makes it easy to reach them even if the t/s are on the bars.
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