Retaining Ring Pliers
Retaining Ring Pliers for Snap Rings and Circlips
Retaining ring pliers have pointed tips that fit the lug holes on snap rings, so you can spread or squeeze a ring to take it off or seat it on a shaft or in a bore. This collection is small and focused. Knipex offers the 45 10 170 and the angled 45 21 200 pliers for rings on shafts. Channellock adds the 927 8-inch heavy duty pliers. Wiha packs straight internal and external pliers into the 32693 8-piece set. Knipex also lists the 85 51 250 AFSBA locking pliers for spring hose clamps.
What to Look For
- Internal or external. External pliers open to spread rings on shafts. Internal pliers close to compress rings set inside bores.
- Straight or angled tips. Straight tips suit open access. Angled tips reach rings recessed in a housing.
- Set or single. The Wiha 8-piece set suits a shop that sees many ring sizes. A single Knipex plier works for one repeat job.
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Retaining Ring Pliers FAQ
Can I use needle nose pliers on a snap ring?
Not reliably. Needle nose jaws slip off the lug holes and can launch the ring. Retaining ring pliers have tips sized for the holes, which gives control while the ring is under tension. Wear eye protection either way.
Are hose clamp pliers the same thing?
No. The Knipex 85 51 250 AFSBA grips the ears of spring hose clamps and locks them open. It does not fit retaining ring lug holes.