How to install a self locking retaining ring

[Lovesbeer99]

I have a Mossberg 320B that needs new safety parts so I bought them from Numrich. The parts are all held in place through a shaft and the final piece is this self locking retaining ring. The parts are all so tight I can't figure out how to install this ring to keep it all together.

Do I need a special tool or is there a specific procedure? Thanks in advance.

 

[YankeeFlyr]

You mean a snap ring? An external snap ring?

Post a pic...

 

[Lovesbeer99]

Here is a pick. You can see that the safety levers are on a shaft and that the ring is supposed to be holding them in place under pressure from the top lever. Problem is I can't get that top lever down far enough to slide the ring on. I'm afraid that if I bend the top lever it won't put enough pressure on the ring and the entire assembly will fall apart.

Is there a special tool or process to get this ring on?

 

[gubertrious]

I have always called them e clips I just line it up with the groove and push it in with a screwdriver maybe a couple taps wits a hammer on the screwdriver

 

[jaguarxk120]

Press down on the parts with the open ends of needle nose pliers, then push the clip into place with a small screwdriver. Putting the whole thing on several layers of towel will help steady the gun and will catch any parts that may fly off if you slip.

Just go slowly it should work out.

 

[rcmodel]

E-Clip tools:

http://www.duratrax.com/accessories/tools/dtxr1107.html

http://www.amazon.com/OTC-4492-E-Clip-Tool-Set/dp/B000RT4BNG

The tool arms compress the spring while you push it on.
You can make one out of a flat piece of 3/16"steel bar stock.

rc

 

[Lovesbeer99]

I finally just tapped down on the top lever till it was flat enough to get the clip on and it works just fine. There is plenty of tension on it and on the safety so its all good now.

Thanks for all your input.