Okay, here's the real question in regards to installing the snap ring:

Can I just use a wood or rawhide mallet and tap the ring in place, just get the open end in place and be gentle?

I'm looking at all these different (cheap) pliers at places like Harbor Freight and I have no idea which one would work, and time is a major issue. The parts are on the way, should be here on Monday, and then I need to get the job done and finish packing, move to Maine.

Any thoughts would be awesome!

mark