(PostWar Lionel) 'HorseCollar' Clip Removal?

[pgtr]

More often than not I seem break these when I pop them off to remove trucks. I can then either replace them w correct ones from a parts dealer or use 'hairpin' style clips from the hardware store fastener section (which can be reused).

Is there any 'trick' to removing these without having them crack most times?

Any problem with using the small sprung retainer clips (the curled 'hairpin' style)?
(They are small enough to spin around in the recessed areas of most rolling stock and can be reused)

Thanks

[Anonymous]

I use long nose pliers to remove old horse shoe type clips. If there isn't a gap between the two ends of the clip, insert a small flat screwdriver and twist to make a gap.  Now, place the point of the long nose pliers into the gap and pull the handles apart.  This will spread the ends of the clip apart, and it will slide off of the stud it was around.  The clip can be reused with this method.  Hope this helps.

[Jumijo]

Very timely question, as I've been wondering how to do that myself.

Jim

[msacco]

I use the same method as Jim, but I will add something based on my own experience. When I first started removing these I tended to spread the plier's tip too much making the opening bigger than it has to be. THis of course weakens the clip and it may break when tightened again. Like anything else the more you do it the better you get at it.

Mike S.