How to Install and Remove an Internal Spirolox® Retaining Ring

What's the difference between a Spirolox® Retaining Ring and a traditional stamped snap ring? Our retaining rings are designed to be installed and removed by hand, so no special tooling is required.
This video covers how to install and remove an Internal Spirolox® Retaining Ring using a flathead screwdriver and a staple remover.
Want more information? Download our Installation and Removal Guide: expert.smalley....
Have a video topic or question you want to Ask the Expert?expert.smalley....

[@stevereitnauer8406]

They make it look so easy. When what it’s supposed to hold is there it’s not as easy.

[@SmalleySteelRing]

Thank you for the comment, Steve. We wanted to show a clear example of the installation and removal of our products. We understand that situations are different depending on the application. If we can help in any way, please reach out to [e-mail].

[@MisterFizz]

Small rings in the 3/4" groove dia range run a buck each for non-branded spiral internal rings. Am not familar with the pricing offered by Smalley. But a dollar/ring is somewhat pricey compared to traditional stamped snap rings.

[@SmalleySteelRing]

Thanks for your comment, Archie. Smalley pricing depends on a variety of factors such as ring size, material, and quantity. Please email us at [e-mail] to get pricing on a specific Spirolox retaining ring, or check out our online store at store.smalley.com . We highlight the differences between a stamped snap ring and Spirolox retaining ring in this blog if you'd like to learn more: www.smalley.com/blog/smalley-spirolox-retaining-ring-vs-stamped-circlip

[@joshuajones2458]

These things suck so hard. Snap rings are so much easier.

[@MisterFizz]

@@joshuajones2458 Look, I get it. The large ones are simple enough to install using only hands, fingers, fingernail and some elbow grease. But the small ones can be challenging. If you care about your installation being secured, you'll opt for the spiral rings. Anyone, even someone who's never see an conventional snap ring or a pair of circlip pliers can pretty much instantly figure out how a conventional snap ring is removed or installed just by looking at it. Not so much with a spiral retaining ring. Here's how I manage it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/npvddWOCop2jasU. And Smalley's rings, trust me, are awesome. You just have to hold your mouth right during installation or removal.

[@joshuajones2458]

@@MisterFizz I hate them. Sorry I just do. I most commonly come across them on input shaft seals in steering gear. After it's over I forget about it until next time. I was reminded today. I guess my mouth doesn't hold right, because installing them never fails to make me angry.

[@xmenxwk]

Nice what about external retaining Ring

[@SmalleySteelRing]

You can find that video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5q2kpmLraisqKM. If you need any assistance, please reach out to us: www.smalley.com/ask-expert. Thanks for watching!

[@phantumdrummer]

Interesting they show all sorts of tools you can use, but NOT the tool they specifically made for this. The one that is actually on the table next to the guy and NEVER shown.

[@SmalleySteelRing]

Thank you for the comment. That is correct. We wanted to show other options available for use.

[@phantumdrummer]

@SmalleySteelRing Here in lies the problem... I was looking for a video that shows how to use your special tool and the attachments it comes with. I was given one the other day and wanted see more info about it. There is NOT a single video to be found anywhere.

[@SmalleySteelRing]

@@phantumdrummer thank you for the video idea. In the meantime, you can reference our Removal Tool PDF here: www.smalley.com/sites/default/files/pdfs/RT-108.pdf. Hopefully, this helps; if not, please feel free to reach out to us at [e-mail].

[@kixv2]

This helped for my Aviation Maintenance Lab (turbine overhaul). Thanks! Two of these were installed, and after being stumped, came across this video and it made installation a breeze.