snap ring plier/tips question

okay background
i need to remove the rear axle/transmission assembly from my honda self/propel mower
to do this i need to remove some snap rings
i went and got a cheap tool to do this but the snap ring tips don't fit in the holes [lesson learnt]

my neighbor has the good tool but he broke his tips - so now i am thinking i should just buy him the new tips and borrow his tool; problem is IDK what size tips i am gonna need for this

according to the diagram i am looking at a 25mm outer snap ring
https://www.ereplacementparts.com/h...9-lawn-mower-parts-c-37657_188003_188138.html

i think this is the tool he has - there are two different packs of tips that are different sizes
https://channellock.com/product/927t/
so how do i determine what size tips i will need

i tried googling the answer and that got me nowhere, so for a TW save!
this has been pissing me off/driving me bonkers for a bit now

 

Can’t you measure the size of the holes on the snap ring. If you can and have a set of drill bits take the one bit that fits in the hole and there you have it

 

i could measure the holes but they are tiny AF and the calipers i have won't go that small

but the drill bit is a great idea - THANKS!

 

If you have through access behind the snap ring, if its an internal snap ring, you can use a little bit of lock wire to make a loop then twist the ends together and it'll cinch the legs close so you can remove it. It's more difficult if you cant get behind it.

-J

 

yea i can't get behind it...
i am gonna have to give up and get someone to help me i think

thanks for the suggestion tho!!

 

Did the drill bit tip not work?

-J

 

nope - i have multiple sets of drill bits, none of the tips were fine enough
it was a great idea, i was pretty hopeful but naw

 

After struggling with the removable tip pliers for most of my life I finally spent the money on these. Not cheap but oh so worth it.

$150 KNIPEX Tools - 6 Piece Circlip Pliers Set In Foam Tray (002001V02)

https://www.amazon.com/KNIPEX-Tools...1729563151&sprefix=knipex+snap,aps,289&sr=8-2

 

I have those same channel lock snap ring pliers. I just try the different bits until I find the one that fits.

 

I can't justify that cost - I am trying to replace [at worst] a 70$ part..
I also am not sure I'd ever use them again [I am sure I will now that I say this]

My neighbor says he has a nice set but needs new tips so I am thinking I just buy him new tips and use his at this point..

 

The Harboring Fright snap ring set works, probably worth the money but changing heads and supporting China is irritating