Hi,
I helped a buddy last night fix the infamous "c-clip fell of front axle shaft" problem on his '95 Trooper. We did everything possible to put the c-clip back onto the axle shaft after we re-installed the spacer/washer on the axle shaft. After being unsuccessful for 1.5 hours, we removed the spacer/washer and then installed the c-clip. My question is: How critical is this spacer/washer and what is the "damage" that could occur without using it? My common sense tells me this spacer will help keep the c-clip in place ... and without it, the c-clip is more susceptible to getting "bumped off" the end of the axle shaft. Comments?? Thanks ... Fred.

IÆm assuming youÆre talking about the c clip on the end of the stub shaft, by the hub. And not the c clip that holds the axel seal in place next to the axel frame mount arms.

If youÆre talking about the stub shaft c clip you just want it to be tight. With as little slop behind it as possible. IÆve lost spacers and just put the clip back in with a good 3/16th of space behind it with no problems.

The only issue you will have is a gap on the back side of the spindle between the dust flange on the axel shaft. So debris might be able to get in there. Other than that itÆs no big thing.

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

(Edit) Also it never hurts to install a new C clip as opposed to using an old one. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Thanks Bob. Yes, I am talking about the c-clip at the hub assembly. Glad to know this is not a big deal. Thanks again ... Fred.