A lock ring spreader is capable of being mounted to a lock ring having a first end and a second end. The lock ring spreader comprises a first mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the first end of the lock ring and a second mount that is mountable to the lock ring near the second end of the lock ring. A crank arm is pivotally coupled to the first mount and extends radially outward from the first mount relative to the lock ring. A link arm is pivotally coupled to the second mount and the crank arm, and extends radially outward from the second mount relative to the lock ring. Pivoting the crank arm radially inward relative to the lock ring pivots the link arm relative to the crank arm and expands the distance between the first mount and the second mount.