Retaining Ring Installation & Removal

Assembly Brochure
Click here (PDF) to download the Introduction to Spiral Retaining Ring Installation and Removal brochure which contains instructions for manual installation, semi-automated/automated installation, multiple groove installation, self locking installation, WaveRing installation, removal, special end configurations, and miscellaneous applications.

Manual Assembly
Manual snap ring installation on an individual or low production basis is accomplished as follows:

1) Separate coils and insert end of retaining ring into groove

2) Wind retaining ring into groove

3) Inspect for proper seating on the groove

Shaft

Housing

Production Assembly
For higher speed assembly operations retaining ring installation is accomplished with a plunger and a tapered plug. The plug, angled at approximately 6 degrees, is centered over the shaft end. A loose fitting plunger pushes the snap ring into position over the tapered plug. An arbor press or air cylinder is commonly used to automate this assembly operation. Tooling for retaining ring installation should have hardened working surfaces to minimize wear.

Shaft

Housing

Retaining Ring Removal
Insert screwdriver and twist to remove end of snap ring. Continue to spiral around circumference of the ring.