Friday Tool Time: Painless Spiral Lock Installation and Removal

 

Lock-In-Tool’s Spiral-loc installation tool.

Lock-In-Tool has the right idea when it comes to dealing with spiral and wire wrist-pin locks, which are notorious for being difficult during installation and removal. In fact, it’s the type of tool that you won’t know you’ll love unless you use it. Your fingers, particularly your thumbs, will be especially grateful. In addition to preventing injuries, it eases the workload and helps avoid piston damage and bent locks.

The Lock-In-Tool spiral-loc installation and removal tools are available in hardened steel tool available for professional engine builders, or a lightweight plastic tool available for the do-it-yourself engine builder. They’re available in two sizes, .927-inch and .990-inch. The tool handle is engineered so that each tool head is interchangeable.

Start by placing the supplied clip into lock groove of piston to prevent the wrist pin from sliding completely through the piston. Then spin the spiral lock onto the Lock-In-Tool until the end of the spiral lock reaches the registration mark on the end of the tool.

With the registration mark turned down, tilt the tool slightly to the left. Insert into piston, placing lock into lock groove. Square the tool and lock against the wrist pin using firm pressure. Maintain pressure and turn tool counter clockwise. Keep turning tool until spiral lock has been spun into the lock groove completely.

About the author

Bobby Kimbrough

Bobby grew up in the heart of Illinois, becoming an avid dirt track race fan which has developed into a life long passion. Taking a break from the Midwest dirt tracks to fight evil doers in the world, he completed a full 21 year career in the Marine Corps.
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