Official Answer
Answer
Spiral retaining rings, unlike stamped circlips, do not have 'ears' with holes for pliers. Instead, they feature a removal notch (usually a small offset or slot) at one end. For field maintenance, particularly in subsea or heavy machinery, the notch must be accessible. Proper installation requires the notch to be positioned away from obstructions. A dental pick or screwdriver is inserted into the notch to pry the end out of the groove, allowing the ring to be unwound. If the notch is damaged during installation (e.g., by excessive force), the ring becomes nearly impossible to remove without damaging the shaft or housing.
