Piston Removal

[abacb_07]

I am currently working on the top end of a 72 Honda CL350 and am having an issue with removing the pistons.

I have removed the circlip from the ends of the pin, however the pin will not slide out. Should there be any resistance on these during removal, or should they just slide out? I have not put any more force on them other than what my finger can apply, didn't want to take the chance of damaging them.

Also, upon reinstallation, is a standard snap-ring ok for use on these, or should I use the stock style clips in them?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[SONICJK]

You'll need a little force most likely. I use a small piece of PVC or whatever is sitting around and tap it with a hammer. A brass or aluminum drift would work too.
They aren't hard to remove, but they do take a bit of tapping.
As for the circlips, get new stock ones.

 

[mg42gunner]

I had to use a small wood dowel to knock the wrist pins out of my CB360. As for the circlips, snap rings won't work. I found some for my 360 on bikebandit or oldbikebarn. I don't remember which, but they were like .30 a piece.

 

[hillsy]

Make sure you have the piston fully supported if you are going to hammer the pin out with a drift. You don't want to damage the big ends or rods by pushing the piston sideways.