What can I use instead of a retaining ring?

COTTER PIN AND WASHER Or, you could simply machine a groove onto the shaft and install a retaining ring (example on right). It creates a “shoulder” that retains the component or assembly.

When should you use a retaining ring?

Retaining rings are used to hold components onto a shaft or into a bore. The smooth, round finish of most shafts or bores makes them difficult to attach to with alternative methods, whereas retaining rings clamp around them and create a shoulder that keeps parts in place.

How do you size a retaining ring?

Clip diameter — Ring size is determined by measuring the clip’s free diameter, or the diameter of the clip prior to installation. Internal retaining rings are measured by their outer diameter, while external rings are measured by their inner diameter.

Can you reuse a retaining ring?

Depending on the installation method and installation stress, these rings can often be reused without any issues. If your application requires frequent installation and removal, it would be best to keep the installation stress low to minimize the need for replacement retaining rings.

What is the difference between a snap ring and a retaining ring?

Retaining rings — also known as snap rings or circlips — are metal fasteners installed into a groove on a shaft, or in a housing or bore to retain an assembly. The devices keep parts in place using a compact, lightweight design that requires fewer machining operations than other fastening techniques.

Why is it called a Jesus clip?

The term “Jesus clip” comes from the propensity of the clip’s spring action to launch the clip at a high velocity when removing or installing, leading to remarks such as, “Oh Jesus, where did it go?”

Can I use e clip instead of snap ring?

We use e clips over snap rings because for snap rings you need to turn down the shaft to a circle. E clips don’t require the circular shaft and can easily be pressed into the machined groove (no tool is needed).

How do I remove a retaining ring?

To remove this ring, simply pry out the end using a small screwdriver or staple remover, and then spiral the ring out by hand. For larger size rings, Smalley also makes a removal tool, part number RT-108, that can be used to remove the rings. The end of the tool contains a slot to insert the tip of the removal notch.

Do helicopters still have the Jesus nut?

Now a lot of modern helicopters don’t have a Jesus nut. There are many other different methods of fixing the main rotor to the mast. However, the name is not going to disappear, because people are already using it for other crucial components of other mechanisms.

What is the nut called on a helicopter?

Jesus nut
Jesus nut is a slang term for the main rotor retaining nut or mast nut, which holds the main rotor to the mast of some helicopters. The related slang term Jesus pin refers to the lock pin used to secure the retaining nut.

What is the difference between a circlip and a snap ring?

A circlip, also known as a C-clip or snap ring, is a type of retaining ring with open ends that snap into place. Circlips are fasteners that fit into the radial grooves of shafts and holes that are sprung to ensure they remain securely in place.