when you direct tie a crank bait should you remove the split ring or tie to it?

You have 2 choices. 1 you tie directly which I prefer or 2 you take the split ring off then tie a loop knot. I would no tie direct if you take the split ring off. It changes the action of the bait. I know a lot of people who don't like extra hardware on their lures and take off the split rings, and they all tie loop knots to simulate the split ring.

If the split ring is missing from a crank I use a snap.

I tie direct to the split ring, that allow the lure to move around better.

Steve

I suggest using a snap.

It is easier to change baits and it allows the crankbait to move freely.

Give 'em a try and you will see how easy it is to change crankbaits easily and fast.  

I agree with Sam.  Unless it's a small crank bait, I use a snap with all my cranks, even if it has a split ring.  I know some people say not to use both, but on larger cranks I see no dicernible difference in action or catch rates.  On small cranks, it may affect the way it floats or suspends - so with those, I only use either a split ring or a snap.  

I always tie direct to the line-eye, because split-rings and snaps can pick-up weeds.

However, if a split-ring is included with the lure, I'll tie direct to the split-ring.

If the manufacturer includes a split-ring, the odds are high that they have a good reason.

The cost of one split-ring is negligible, but the cost of a hundred thousand split-rings gets into real money.

Roger