Circlip thickness?

[MLBS3V12]

I 've started to repair the half shafts from the IRS. I've dismantled them remove the old paint and rust. I've applied 2 layers of black epoxy.
I've received the 8 U joints and I've started to put them in place.
I don't understand what happens. On the 2 first ones, the first circlip is good in place. On the opposite one there is not enough place to put the circlip in its place. It seems that I should get a very thin circlips to put it in place. I've remove one of the 2 U joints and every thing is ok. All the roller bearings are in place.
I've a half shaft coming from a XJS and I've looked at the circlips thickness. The ones from the XJS are 1.5mm thin vs 1.75mm for the ones I've received. Do I have to play with the circlips thickness to be able to fit the u joints?

Cheers
Michel

[Mike L]

I ran into the same problem whn installing the half shaft U joints.
The problem I found was the distance between the circlip grooves in the universal, varies (This is 1960's manufacturing)
Fortunately circlips DO come in varying thicknesses. The ones supplied with the joints are slightly thicker than standard commercial circlips. By mixing and matching it is possible to achive the results you want.

[Durango2k]

Bodge it. Use an angle grinder and carefully flatten the caps.

Had the same.

Carsten

[MLBS3V12]

I 've found circlips with a thickness of 1.25mm. It sounds good. I've been able to place all of them easily.
Lets go to the next issue!

Cheers
Michel

[osgii]

Hey,
I have the same issue with my front suspensions... Don't know if it's due to the coat of zinc which reduce the gap where the circlip goes, but I'm unable to place the circlip. Maybe a thinner one would do the job. Where did you found them Michel?

[MLBS3V12]

Osgii,

I've got the chance to be supplied by my Son because of its work.
However, I'm quite sure that it is possible to find your need on internet.
If you dont let me know the ssize your are looking for and the qty.

Cheers

Michel