My old 1980s era Rover 200 ES XL mower has the standard 1/2" push clips to hold on the wheels, (sometimes called Starlocks or Speed clips). But it also has a thin 1/2" shim washer that sits behind this push clip. I believe the original part No is MTD 736-05009.
Without it, the wheels will not turn, because the push clip forces the wheel bearing too close against the wheel. The bearings protrude a bit, so the washer is obviously needed to keep a short space between the rotating part of the bearing and the wheel. I have two mowers of that vintage and all eight wheels have that additional flat washer, which tells me they must have come from the factory that way. The problem is the push clips are so difficult to remove, the washers often get bent out of shape in the process.
I have been unable to purchase that original part number except from the UK. Of course the push on clips can be purchased everywhere. I am wondering if some standard 1/2" I.D. washers might do the job? The problem is a lot of the ones on the market are a bit too thick. The originals are a bit less than a mm thick at a guess. The outside diameter of the washers is 1" and inside diameter 1/2", but it might not matter if the O.D. is 3/4" or 7/8". They are a thin washer and black in colour (anodized?).
Can anyone suggest a suitable replacement?
