Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

[Sureshot]

Hey everybody. I'm working on a rebuild of my 2000 Johnson 50 HP 2-stroke. I got a couple of WSM oversize pistons and am running into issues trying to install the retaining clips (or circlips) to hold the wrist pins in. My factory manual recommends a couple of special tools (OMC cone 318600 & OMC driver 318599) but they seem to be hard to come by. I've tried the method of twisting w/ needle nose pliers and pushing w/ a screw driver but all I've managed to do is to scuff up the wrist pin opening and tear up my fingers. Is there any other approaches to getting these clips in easily?

 

[MWG2600]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Ive always used a small Flathead screwdriver and my fingers. Start 1 end of the clip in the grove, then while holding presser on it push the other end into the grove with the screwdriver .

 

[retiredfornow]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

I've used the cone shaped plastic end off a tube of silicone. If you slip, no scratches or bloody fingers.

 

[boobie]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Just make sure you get them installed with the open end down. 180* from the top of the piston.

 

[Sureshot]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Yep, will definitely make sure there pointed the right way. Retiredfornow, so you just used the cone to drive the clip into the groove? Or was it more for preventing it from flying out of the hole?

 

[retiredfornow]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Like MWG2600 said, start one end into the groove, then wedge it in the rest of the way. Keep your thumb over it so it doesn't zing into never-never land. I used the cone to drive it into the groove by pushing it. Good luck! It's really easy once you've done a few.

 

[Sureshot]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

I was finally able to wedge the ring in, hold it with my fingers and used some needle nose pliers to twist it into place. Must be getting the hang of it now because the 2nd one was much easier. Thanks MWG2600 & RFN for the help!

 

[MWG2600]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

I'm glad i could help, Ive alaways lined them up with the slot to remove them. Ive nearver worried about what direction there facing, and that works on 800 hp v-6 turbocharged auto engines!

 

[boobie]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

If the slot is face down you can still get at the clip to remove them, and they hold better when the cyl fires.

 

[jmendoza]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

I have always called them Jesus clips because when the take off flying across the shop you say: "Jesus......"

 

[James R]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Use a leather glove to protect your thumb. Cut a square slot in one side of a flat screw driver. Engage this on the clip and push in. Using pliers may collapse the clip so that it can come loose.

 

[Sureshot]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

That's a good tip about carving a slot in a flathead. The clips that came with the WSM pistons were thicker and a lot more springy than the ones I took off of the original pistons. So if your screw driver or pliers slip, that sucker would take off pretty quick! Thanks all.

 

[Mas]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Am I missing something here?? Why not just get a pair of "circlip pliers??" They're available at any auto store.

Mas

 

[Mas]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

Here's an example:

http://www.aikencolon.com/Knipex-44-10-J5-4410J5-Locking-Circlip-Pliers_p_2014.html

Mas

 

[MWG2600]

Re: Wrist Pin Retaining Clips Install

They are spring roud wire clips, dont have the peg holes. That tool wouldn't help at all.