Forgot to install c-clip, gotta do it?

[Gumpy Guss]

So I replaced the upper and lower ball joints on my 1996 Integra, passengers side. I did the other side last spring.

I press in the ball joints, slip on the rubber covers, remembering to slip on the wire clip that secures the rubber boots.

Everything goes together pretty well, and I’m proud of myself.

Until the next day, when I look down on the driveway and there is the circlip that was supposed to go on one of the ball joints.

So the question is, do I have to undo everything again to put on the circlip?

There is no constant weight on the ball joints, they are there just for holding the steering knuckle in position.

And I had to horse down on the ball joint presser pretty good to get them into place.

Opinions?

Topic

[Bill]

The clip is there for a reason. I would install it. You would have to at least remove the joint from the spindle and probably the rubber grease retainer as well.

[drthrift035]

Great point. It it comes with the vehicle. It needs to be installed. There is a purpose for it.

[Tom]

I would say that the clip is important, and it could lead to a really bad day if you don’t install it. There are two things on a car that I don’t ever recommend taking shortcuts, or doing things that aren’t 100% right. One is the steering / suspension system, the other is the brakes.

[Author]

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