Wheel bearing retainer clip...

[Foster]

So, I need some advice. Last night I spent my evening removing this pile of crap that used to be wheel bearings. Not the most fun I have ever had but I got it taken care of. In the process the retainer clip that is only installed on side of the wheel anyway feel apart, as you can see. Do I really need a new one before I run the bike around? The bearings don't seem like they are going anywhere and the one side doesn't have one anyway. I put it back together and opted to leave it out but I am wondering if there are unforeseen consequences to this course of action? My wife's bike does have a new set of rear wheel bearings and a k&n air filter after last nights fun in the garage

[troy]

This video might help you next time you need to replace those wheel bearings. The torch and freezer are your friends.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7GQI6Hh1bI[/youtube]

I keep thinking I want a bearing remover slide hammer--seems like a perfect way to get bearings out easily. But, every time I watch a pro do it, he just uses a hammer and punch.

My 2007 KTM 450 EXC does not have the retainer clip. My 1999 KTM 300 EXC does. Like you, I don't think there would be an issue if the clip was missing. The bearings aren't loose in the hub, and with the dust seal and bolted into the swingarm, there's no place for the bearing to go.

Maybe someone with actual experience with this issue will respond. Or not because they didn't put their wheel bearing clip in and the wheel flew apart at 50 MPH and they died.

[Foster]

Lol. Thanks Troy. Getting them in was never an issue. One of them wanted to stay where it was. Forever! I was not sure I was ever going to get the broken retainer clip out of the hub!

[katbeanz]

I didn't see what bike you are working on, I'd have to look at a parts fiche to determine how important that snap ring is. It's probably beefy enough cheap snap ring pliers might have trouble. AFAIK snap rings are punched out then heat treated, one side feels almost rounded and the other kinda sharp. It's good practice to make the sharp edge work for you, in this case facing out.

[Foster]

I didn't see what bike you are working on, I'd have to look at a parts fiche to determine how important that snap ring is. It's probably beefy enough cheap snap ring pliers might have trouble. AFAIK snap rings are punched out then heat treated, one side feels almost rounded and the other kinda sharp. It's good practice to make the sharp edge work for you, in this case facing out.

This snap ring had been in there so long it just came apart but the pieces were still very sturdy and stuck very well in the hub. It is on a kdx 200. I think after this last project, all I have to do is replace the seal on the exhaust.

Oh, and refill the headlight fluid...