Spiral locks-how do you remove them?

[Avery]

I'm opening up a motor that has J&E's with the spiral loc type wrist pin locks. Is there a trick to removing these things? I have not really tried messing with them yet but I thought I ask before I start... TIA

[tadd]

I always destroy them getting them out. I don't know if I am untalented or they are just designed that way. I use a dental probe (hook with a sharp end) and a pair of either 90 or 45 degree fine needle nose pliers. I've tried bent hemostats, but they dont have enough grip to muscle the ring out. I try to twist them along the circumfirence of the groove so it doesn't tear up the piston. Think like you are rolling up a sardeen (sp?) can lid with the key.

tadd

[cstreit]

I've never been able to get them out without destroying them. Then again, It's wise to replace them anyway. Pick out the end and then twist while pulling.

[sww914]

I used a cutting torch, an air chisel, a 50 ton press and vice-grips, all at the same time. I ruined the case, the pistons, the pins and the rods, but I was able to save the locks.

[Avery]

Thanks all.....the grab, yank, pull and destroy method is what I employed. Worked fine.