Help with cartridge wire clips

@coreyt , you usually just have to "stretch" the clips a little. You need a needle nose pliers and an awl. You hold the clip in the needle nose pliers at the wire end (BUT NOT BY THE WIRE!!) Then insert the awl into the cartridge side and stretch it just a little. Check for fit and if still too tight do it again.

A toothpick with a round profile works fast and safely to open up the cartridge clips. I wouldn’t go near them with metal tools but an awl would probably work if you’re careful. You do want them to fit tightly as possible so don’t overdo it.

OP, that is interesting. I’ve only used the clips with a ‘slit’ which allowed me to stretch them to fit the pins. I would then gently clamp down on the clips after the pins were in to ensure a snug fit.

Are you able to ‘stretch’ the clips as described? 

Ortofon headshells are known for this, possibly because their headshells are designed for their own cartridges.  I had issues trying to install a Hana into one. Ended up breaking a clip. I solved the issue by removing the leads and replacing them with ones that actually fit the cartridge.

What lewm stated. 

Round wooden toothpick