Spiral locks-how do you remove them?
 

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

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

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.

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.

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