Topic: ANOTHER question on front wheel bearing replacement cb550

[xruss]

I've tooled through old posts and need a clarification on one point.  I know I need to drill out the stakes to get the retainer out, and make a special tool to fit snugly in the grooves of the retainer.  I'm confused on which direction the retainer loosens.  I've seen people note that it is left and others note that it is right.  Can someone set me straight?  And to clarify, when you say left that means counterclockwise and right is clockwise, yes?

Thanks.

[nayto550]

I just checked my service manual, the front bearing retainer on the 550 appears to be a right-hand thread (counter-clockwise to loosen).  The rear wheel bearing retainer, however, is a left-hand thread.

[dave500]

its a normal thread,counter clockwise will undo it,,the rear wheel one has the "left hand thread" the front retainer is aluminium and wont take much beating with a chisel or punch,try and fashion a two pin wrench for it.,heres a couple i made.

[xruss]

Thanks guys.  Also, Dave, thanks for setting me straight on the rear wheel.  I have the bearings for that as well and hope to get to that shortly. 

[xruss]

So I drilled out the stakes a bit and started to crank the retainer ring out.  The thing isn't turning out freely.  I've stopped it just shy of half way out because I'm afraid the threads are getting torn up.  I'm not sure I've drilled the stakes out enough.  Is it normal for this ring to be real tough to get out all the way, or may I have a problem. If there may be some thread shredding going on, is it advisable to try tightening it all the way back down and drilling some more?  I'm I just being overly cautious?