Why are plug circlips soft?

[docramage]

A high proportion of Yale and similar pin locks have the plug retained by a circlip which is made from a soft metal - whereas in most engineering applications such clips are hardened/spring steel.

This means that almost every time I remove one, I have to replace with a new clip.

I guess there is a reason for this - but I cannot guess it. Googled subject, but no explanation - anyone know?

[GWiens2001]

Figure it is for one of two reasons. First, so it can be easily installed in the first place - just use smooth-jaw pliers to crimp them in place. Second - they are intended to be replaced if the lock is disassembled.

Sort of like some parts on a car or truck - if you remove a CV joint, you should replace the clips. Also, if you remove a cotter key (cotter pin), it should always be replaced as well. The world will not end if you do not replace them, but it is a good practice.

For me - since the locks in my collection are unlikely to ever be installed for use (most doors in the United States, for example, are not set up, nor are they thick enough, to install a euro-profile lock), I always straighten out the clip and reinstall it on the lock.

Keep in mind that I am not a professional locksmith, so any pro lockie's advice should probably be taken over mine if there is a contradiction. Still have a LOT to learn.

Gordon

[cledry]

Yale levers do not use the softer clip, the older rim cylinders do though. They are easily re-bent and re-used. It also depends on how you remove them, there a re tricks to removing them so as not to deform them.

[Raymond]

Ditto Cledry's post.

What he said is very correct. If you remove the clip carefully you can put it back on securely. Just crimp it back in place on 4 corners.

The real reason is financial. The engineers would use nothing but plated spring steel but after it is designed, the bean counters say it costs too much. They can save the company loads of money by scaling back to soft metal, crimp-on clips. This especially bothers me when the lock has a long, rim type tail-piece.

Now consider the cheap import cylinders that have the pin holes joined by a narrow slot. That must save the company millions on cast pot metal. I have seen several that had under size holes that .115 diameter pins would not fit. And, others where the pin holes are not drilled all the way down to the registration ward. The pins bottom out at a #6 pin when they ought to go to #9.