I have a spool bearing that I absolutely cannot remove. It's on the brake cover side, of a Shimano Citica.

I always use the cotton swab method. Push the swab in, pull the bearing out. The one on the gear side popped

right out. I don't want to damage by using a screwdriver, or a punch. Any suggestions?

Hootie

Bent paper clip  

Kind of concerned about metal on metal damage.

Hootie

Are you just pulling it out to clean it or replacing it?

 

Try the end of a small paintbrush handle that's plastic or wood.  Then you won't have the metal to metal you were worried about with the paperclip.

5 minutes ago, gulfcaptain said:

Are you just pulling it out to clean it or replacing it?

 

Try the end of a small paintbrush handle that's plastic or wood.  Then you won't have the metal to metal you were worried about with the paperclip.

Pulling it out to clean it. Sounds like your idea is worth a try. 

Hootie

Break a Bobby pin right at the bend. It will leave a little hook you can use as a puller. Sometimes you need to pull on it with a pair of pliers. Not uncommon at all. Perfectly safe for the bearing. 

8 minutes ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

Break a Bobby pin right at the bend. It will leave a little hook you can use as a puller. Sometimes you need to pull on it with a pair of pliers. Not uncommon at all. Perfectly safe for the bearing. 

Thanks Mike. That alleviates my concern about damage. 

Hootie

 

Bearing out, and in the cleaning solution. Thanks again Mike, rippin-lips, and gulfcaptain.

 

Hootie