How to Remove a Clevis Pin

by C.L. Rease

Clevis pins provide a strong joint between two or more pieces of equipment while allowing the joint to pivot. One end of a clevis pin has a flat head and the other has a taper. The tapered end aligns the holes in parts as you drive the pin into the parts. A hole in the tapered end of the pin holds a cotter pin. This keeps the clevis pin from falling out of the pivot joint. However, corrosion and pressure often make it difficult to remove a clevis pin from secured parts.

Step 1

Spray penetrating oil on the visible length of the clevis pin. Allow the penetrating oil to sit on the pin for five to six hours.

Step 2

Grasp the circular end of the cotter pin (located on the tapered side of the clevis pin) with a pair of needle nose pliers. Pull the cotter pin away from the shaft of the clevis pin. Set the cotter pin aside.

Step 3

Insert the flat end of a pry bar under the lowest part of the pivot joint. Push on the end of the pry bar to release pressure from the clevis pin shaft.

Step 4

Align the tapered end of a drift pin with the tapered end of the clevis pin. Hit the flat end of the drift pin with a hammer to drive the drift pin against the clevis pin. Continue hitting the end of the drift pin until the clevis pin pops from the secured parts.