Shotgun Mainspring retaining clip removal

[tws3b2]

I have a old stevens beat up bolt action shotgun that I'm trying to get back into shooting shape. Refinishing the woodwork and trying to repair a broken bolt assembly. I need to disassemble the bolt and replace some of the parts. I have all the parts i need but am having a problem removing the mainspring retaining clip. I can't figure how this thing comes out. I know there is a way but i just can't see it. Attached is a drawing of the retaining clip from schematics and photo of the clip in place in the bolt. I would take it to a gun smith but since i already have three times what the gun will be worth when i finish in it now, I need to do it myself. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Col. Harrumph]

I'm not familiar with your gun and am just guessing at what I can't see in your pix.... Is there a way to get at the prongs from inside the bolt? Maybe you could push the clip out with a bent pin punch?

 

[BBBBill]

Looks to be a type of snap ring. Snap ring pliers would be the tool for that. I would have a couple new ones handy before removing that one.

 

[Blue68f100]

The ears are contacting the bolt at 2 points. I would oil the bolt and clip real good then use a pin to pull the bolt with some rotation. Normally those type of clips will spring open allowing you to get the part out. It's very hard to remove the clip without damaging it. The reason to just over come the spring tension during removal is best.

 

[tws3b2]

The ears are contacting the bolt at 2 points. I would oil the bolt and clip real good then use a pin to pull the bolt with some rotation. Normally those type of clips will spring open allowing you to get the part out. It's very hard to remove the clip without damaging it. The reason to just over come the spring tension during removal is best

The ears are contacting the bolt at 2 points. I would oil the bolt and clip real good then use a pin to pull the bolt with some rotation. Normally those type of clips will spring open allowing you to get the part out. It's very hard to remove the clip without damaging it. The reason to just over come the spring tension during removal is best.

The ears are contacting the bolt at 2 points. I would oil the bolt and clip real good then use a pin to pull the bolt with some rotation. Normally those type of clips will spring open allowing you to get the part out. It's very hard to remove the clip without damaging it. The reason to just over come the spring tension during removal is best.

I think Blue's idea is close. Inside the bolt is the mainspring, then a retaining washer. The washer is thick with a notch cut on each side. The ears of the retaining clip fit into the notches. Seems to me (but what do i know) that if i can push the washer in compressing the spring a little, taking a little pressure off the clip. Then rotate the washer. The clip could be pushed out. Problem is, I have not been able to push the washer in. There is so little room to work with and all i can get in there is a small screwdriver. Thanks for your help.

 

[tws3b2]

Found it. I used a press to push in on the washer, compressing the spring just a tad. That took pressure off the clip and it just fell out. I guess sometimes it don't take smarts. Just a little effort.