Retaining ring pliers

[Brian VT]

I keep trashing the (replaceable) tips of my pliers when trying to remove the retaining ring for my rear wheel bearing and it's still in there. I can't remember how I got it off all the other times.
Any advice ?

[lankydoug]

Buy Snap-On or Mac tools that don't have the replaceable tips. It will cost more but they will last a lifetime.

[einsteingarage]

Originally Posted by Brian VT

I keep trashing the (replaceable) tips of my pliers when trying to remove the retaining ring for my rear wheel bearing and it's still in there. I can't remember how I got it off all the other times.
Any advice ?

Brian, if it's rusted in there, I usually pound on it first to break it free. If you can squeeze the two holes together use a mini screwdriver to pry/pop it out.

[Brian VT]

I don't think it's rusted. There was still lots of grease under the seal and I had the ring out (somehow?) when I greased the bearings last year.
I guess it's just the cheesy tool I've got. I'll try to find some permanent-tip pliers that aren't too spendy and I'll give the ring a few taps in case it might have rusted.
Thanks guys.

p.s. I was kinda hoping you had a "redneck" method so I could do it tonight.

[eff]

Like Justin said, get it started with snap ring pliers and then use a small screw driver to pop it up.