151 external and internal retaining rings in a pre-packaged assortment covering both shaft-mount and bore-mount snap ring sizes used in automotive and mechanical assembly. External and internal retaining rings are the standard solution for retaining bearings, gears, and bushings in assemblies where a separate nut or fastener won't fit — keeping a mixed assortment on hand eliminates per-job sourcing for routine shaft and bore work.

What's Included

External retaining rings (snap rings) — fit into a circumferential groove on the outside of a shaft to retain components axially
Internal retaining rings (snap rings) — fit into a groove inside a bore or housing to retain a shaft or bearing from the inside
Multiple sizes covering common shaft and bore diameters in automotive and mechanical applications
151 pieces total

Specifications

Fastener types	External retaining rings, internal retaining rings
Material	Carbon spring steel
Application	Shaft and bore retention — automotive, drivetrain, and general mechanical assemblies
Installation	Requires snap ring pliers (external or internal, depending on ring type)
Total pieces	151
Supplier	Auveco

Best For

Drivetrain and transmission shops — retaining rings secure bearings, thrust washers, and gear sets inside transmissions, differentials, and axle assemblies; having a stocked assortment reduces disassembly wait time
General automotive service shops — retaining rings appear in wheel hubs, CV axle assemblies, and suspension components; a mixed assortment covers the sizes most commonly encountered
Industrial and equipment maintenance — motors, gearboxes, and hydraulic components use retaining rings throughout; keeping common sizes on hand is basic maintenance prep

External vs. Internal Retaining Rings

External retaining rings (also called external snap rings or circlips) sit in a groove machined around the outside circumference of a shaft. They prevent a bearing, gear, or other component from sliding off the end of the shaft. Installed with external snap ring pliers that compress the ring to fit it into the groove.

Internal retaining rings sit in a groove machined into the inside wall of a bore or housing. They retain a shaft or bearing inside the housing from the inside out. Installed with internal snap ring pliers that expand the ring to fit it into the groove.

The critical dimension for both types is the groove diameter — not the shaft or bore diameter alone. Always measure the groove and verify the ring's unloaded diameter matches before installation. Never reuse a retaining ring that has been removed — the spring tension is compromised after expansion or compression. Questions? Contact us.

Shipping & Ordering

Ships within 1–2 business days from our warehouse
Volume pricing available — save up to 20% when ordering 3 or more
Reorder regularly? Ask us about a B2B account with a quarterly restock cadence and custom pricing — contact us

Retaining Ring Assortments

151 Piece External & Internal Retaining Ring Assortment