C-Type Retaining Ring Installation Tools｜Your must-have helper for faster, safer installs
- 翰君 陳
- Sep 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 16
When installing C-type retaining rings (circlips / retaining rings), relying on bare hands or non-specialized tools can lead to slipping, ring deformation, or even rings flying off and causing injury. Dedicated installation tools are essential for both efficiency and safety.
Whether for tiny electronics or large machine bearings, the right tool makes installation easier and more stable.
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How to choose the right tool size
The most important reference is the ring’s size and standard.
The tip diameter of the tool must fit the ring’s holes or notches precisely; too large won’t fit, too small may slip out.
Applicable range is usually printed on the tool (compatible ring inner/outer diameter). Choose according to your actual ring size.
Tool length: short handles suit small sizes or tight spaces; long handles provide more leverage for larger rings.
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How to use (key points)
Most C-ring installation tools are circlip-pliers type—simple to use, but mind these details:
Align the holesInsert the tool tips into the ring holes and make sure they sit firmly before applying force.
Open or compress
Shaft rings (external): open the tool to expand the ring and seat it into the shaft groove.
Bore rings (internal): squeeze the tool to compress the ring and place it into the housing groove.
Verify seatingThe ring must sit fully in the groove—no looseness or protrusion.
Notes
Wear safety glasses to prevent injury from ejected rings.
For long work sessions, choose ergonomic handles to reduce fatigue.
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When do you need dedicated tools?
Machine maintenance – Quick ring changes when servicing bearings and gears
Electronics assembly – Small rings require precise tools to seat correctly
Automotive / motorcycle repair – Rings are common in brakes, gearboxes, and drivetrains
Automation equipment – Frequent ring swaps demand safer, time-saving tools
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Tool Selection
Shaft-Type Retaining Ring Tools:
Available in straight and bent types—choose based on the application scenario.
Ring specification ➙ See the table below for size reference.
If you are unsure of the ring specification ➙ measure the inner diameter of the shaft retaining ring and compare it with the table.
Shaft-Type Ring Tools (STH)
Size (Straight/Bent) | Overall Length | Tip Diameter | Compatible Ring Series | Compatible Ring ID |
Extra-Small STH-5 | 125 mm | 0.6 mm | S6–S11 | 6–11 mm |
Small STH-5 | 125 mm | 0.9 mm | S10–S27 | 10–25 mm |
Medium STH-7 | 175 mm | 1.3 mm | S21–S43 | 19–40 mm |
Large STH-9 | 230 mm | 2.3 mm | S35–S85 | 32–80 mm |
X-Large STH-12 | 300 mm | 3.0 mm | S70–S105 | 65–100 mm |
For the complete specifications and sizes of Shaft-Type Retaining Ring Tools, please refer to: https://lihi3.me/i6QfD
Bore-Type (Internal) Retaining Ring Tools:
Available in straight and bent types—choose based on the application scenario.
Ring specification ➙ See the table below for size reference.
If you are unsure of the ring specification ➙ measure the outer diameter of the bore retaining ring and compare it with the table.
Bore-Type (Internal) Ring Tools (RTH)
Size (Straight/Bent) | Overall Length | Tip Diameter | Compatible Ring Series | Compatible Ring OD |
Extra-Small RTH-5 | 125 mm | 0.6 mm | R4–R8 | 3–9 mm |
Small RTH-5 | 125 mm | 0.9 mm | R12–R23 | 12–25 mm |
Medium RTH-7 | 175 mm | 1.3 mm | R19–R60 | 19–65 mm |
Large RTH-9 | 230 mm | 2.3 mm | R31–R75 | 32–80 mm |
X-Large RTH-12 | 300 mm | 3.0 mm | R62–R92 | 65–100 mm |
For the complete specifications and sizes of Bore-Type (Internal) Retaining Ring Tools, please refer to: https://lihi3.me/InhF1
E-Clip Installation Tool
Designed specifically for E-type retaining rings. Easy to operate, low effort, and quickly snaps into the shaft groove to boost assembly efficiency.
Supported E-clip sizes:E1.2 / E1.5 / E2 / E2.3 / E2.5 / E3 / E3.5 / E4 / E5 / E6 / E7 / E8 / E9 / E10 / E12 / E15
E-Clip Removal Tool
Purpose-built for E-clips, enabling quick prying and removal with less effort—safe and convenient.
Supported E-clip sizes:E1.2 / E1.5 / E2 / E2.3 / E2.5 / E3 / E3.5 / E4 / E5 / E6 / E7 / E8 / E9 / E10 / E12 / E15
Dual-Purpose E-Clip Tool
Combines installation and removal in a single tool—one tool covers multiple tasks, saving time and effort.
Supported E-clip sizes:E1.2 / E1.5 / E2 / E2.3 / E2.5 / E3 / E3.5 / E4 / E5 / E6 / E7 / E8 / E9 / E10 / E12 / E15
For the complete specifications and sizes of E-Clip Tools, please refer to: https://lihi3.me/sL8sq
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Why choose Sheng Fong Precision?
Picking circlip tools isn’t just “buying pliers”—you’re buying consistency and expert support. Our advantages:
Broad range – Tools covering many ring sizes
Reliable quality – Precision-machined tips with excellent strength and durability
Easy operation – Straight and bent variants for different work conditions
Fast supply – Stock on hand to support urgent and small-lot needs
Professional advice – We help match tools to ring sizes to reduce installation errors
With Sheng Fong’s tools and service, circlip installation becomes safer and less labor-intensive.
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📩 Contact us for tool selection on LINE (ID: @s9000)
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