Expert: Alan Kahn - 7/23/2006

Question
Hi Alan,

I'm looking into buying those 90 degree tip retaining ring pliers to attach my new speed bag to the Everlast Top Professional Swivel I have in my school'sgym (http://store.everlastboxing.com/top-professional-swivel.html), but there are a few choices to go with in regards to diameter size of the pliers.  Which diameter size should I use?

Also, I'm afraid I'm very new at doing this, so could you give me step by step instructions on how to change the speed bag?

thank you so much for your time.

Answer
Hi Jeff,

Actually, if you are talking about these retaining ring pliers, http://www.crawfordtool.com/retaining_ring.html
than I suggest getting a set with "interchangeable" ends. (look down the page of the above link) The set I got at "Lowes building supply" has several different ends that can be changed for different size links. I don't know exactly what "size" I use, but several fit pretty well.

As far as how to do it, I put the plier tip just inside the split link end retaining clip, and squeeze the pliers, to spread the links just enough to clear the retaining post. then it slides off and you can separate the actual link metal and put your bag inside the link.

Put the link back togther, you can again spread the retaining clip and slide the deep end of the clip (angle it if necessary..) over one one of the retaining posts. then squeeze the pliers and spread the split end wide enough to clear the retaining post. YOu may have to angle it a bit. It is tricky, for the tendency is for the spread clip to slide around. You need to push or steady the deep end of the clip when you put it over the post first, then squeeze the pliers to open it wider.

Once you do it a few times it isn't too bad. The first few times are tricky and may take a few minutes. But be patient and don't bend the retaining clip. Then it won't hold well.

Good luck and hope this helps.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible