Motorcycle Repair: Yamaha Brakes, snap ring pliers, yamaha xs 400

Question
First of all I know nothing about resoring motorcycles but I am almost done with a 79 yamaha xs 400. Have run into a problem with rebuilding the master brake cylinder. Not sure how to release the c clamp, rebuild it. Any help will be apeciated.
Thanks Paul

Answer
Paul, I am guessing that you are referring to the snap ring, buried down inside the recess of the master cylinder plunger area. It helps to have some long, somewhat curved snap ring pliers, then push down on the plunger while you access the snap ring to release it... at least that it is what it takes for a Honda m/c.

In cases where you don't have snap ring pliers, you can sometimes catch the end of the snap ring with a sharp scribe tip and drag it out of the recess. Stick another scribe tip or miniature screwdriver blade in behind the snap ring end and then pry it out. If it is really rusted in there and the ends break off, you will have a pretty tough repair job on your hands.

Bill Silver