Abstract: An expansion tool is provided for manipulating a snap ring, comprising a handle defining a longitudinal axis, and a shaft connected with the handle along the longitudinal axis. The shaft is connected with the handle along the longitudinal axis. The shaft defines a front planar face disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis. A wedge extends from the shaft to a tip, and includes a first surface in substantial alignment with an outer surface of the shaft and a second opposing planar surface disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the front planar face. The wedge further includes opposing engagement surfaces that each taper from the front planar face to the tip at an angle in a range of approximately 2 to 5 degrees. The engagement surfaces are tapered in a configuration to engage and expand a gap of the snap ring.