XL2 Automatic Clutch retaining ring

[mookie]

HELP.  I am having a huge problem removing the snap ring holding the clutch sprocket.  Its the old design with no way to use snap ring pliers.  I saw a post involving vise grips and screw drivers, but that didn't work for me.  Just not much to grab.  Anyone have an alternate method that might work?  Thanks

[xl130]

There is no easy way that I’m aware of. I also had a very difficult time getting mine off. I would suggest buying a snap ring that is the same size. You should not really reuse those things once you pull them off. Most of the time they will get distorted and won’t fit back in properly.

I should warn you that they are equally frustrating to put back on and it’s very easy to break them. I would suggest buying 3 or 4 to be safe.

You could probably find a micro tool but I was unsuccessful at that. I used a could of picks and a lot of patience and a ton of swearing.

Leon has the actual Homelite replacements. Good luck.

www.leonschainsawpartsandrepair.com/apps/search?q=93972

[blythkd]

I know you said screwdrivers didn't work for you but that's what I always used. Haven't seen one in a few years now but I do recall removing the little buggars.

Take one flat screwdriver and pry up on one end of the snap ring near the gap. Pry against the sprocket washer, prying up to pin one end of the snap ring to the crankshaft so it won't spin. Then take another screwdriver, thickest blade that will fit in the gap and pry the gap open. When you pry the gap open, the first tool will pop the end of the ring up out of the groove on the crankshaft. That's the easy part. Now, don't lose it before you get the other end up off the shaft. Obviously, it helps to have another set of hands for this chore.

If you end up having to reinstall it, just push it down on the crankshaft with a deep socket, 7/16 IIRC, but not sure.

[sweepleader]

That is a very ordinary external snap ring, you can get ordinary external snap ring pliers that fit the holes. It will be easily removed and replaced.

This is the type from McMaster-Carr, I am not certain of the size. McMaster has them all or they can be found locally too. I like this type, with solid, solid tips and strong pivot joints. They cost more but will last forever and do not distort when stressed with a ring.

www.mcmaster.com/5449A79/

Here is a page full of different types:

www.mcmaster.com/snap-ring-pliers