I purchased some internal snap ring pliers to remove the snap rings for the rear Pillowball Bushings. I am able to squeeze the ring, but once I start taking the ring out, the ring slips out from the pliers. I'm having a really tough time trying to get it out.

Any advice on how to keep the ring gripped on the pliers while pulling out?

 

Get better snap ring pliers

I've used these from O'Reilly auto parts to remove the snap rings on the rear wheel bearings - about $20.00

 

Yep. I had no issues with mine. I think I bought craftsman pliers from sears.

 

A little trick i learned is that you can use lone nose plier and if they dont fit, grind down the end to fit in the snap ring hole! The long nose plier have some grip that snap ring plier dont have and when the snap ring is too stiff to get out it help a lot this way! Also clean the snap ring with brake cleaner and wire brush to get rid off dirt that can old it tight! excuse my english!!!

 

I used some cheap snap ring pliers from harbor freight with a flat head. I head problems getting it out so I would lift it enough to put a small flat head underneath it and pull it up.

 

I use a set from Snapon. Sometimes it helps if you take a small flat blade screwdriver and use it to work the snap ring out once you compress it. Wear safety glasses.

 

I tried this method out since my pliers were pretty cheap. Worked great! I got 2 of the 6 pillowball bushings removed. At this pace, itll be 2 more days before I get the rest of the 4 out

 

If you have a friend that can help it will go really fast, it would still be a pain to do by yourself because the snap ring pliers slip a lot. Just call a friend over and you can do the other 4 in a few minutes, or anyone in the family can help as well.

 

Unfortunately I am the only one of my family and friends who enjoys working/fixing things myself. They keep telling me to stop being cheap and to take it to the shop to get it professionally done. Where is the fun in that?

 

Luckily I had a friend help me with my bushing install, but hey your in Houston, hit the local forum and ask if anyone is willing to help in the Houston area. I know there is a few Houston people on these forums willing to help someone in need.

 

The job is just busy work if you have the proper tools. Without the proper tools, it can be a pain as with any mechanical job. Invest in some good tools as this is only the beginning with this car.