10ER AO Smith Motor Service?

[nv10er]

Servicing the 1/2 hp AO Smith motor for the first time to replace bearings, replace cord and repaint. Two questions:

1) Spring washer under front bearing fell out during removal before I could see orientation. Picture shows orientation I think should be correct as the downward “fingers” of washer contact outer race of bearing. Do I have it upside down? I also don’t understand the purpose of the spring washer as the bearing appears to be a press fit, so upon installing the new bearing, I suspect the washer will be fully compressed between faceplate and bearing, acting more like a shim washer…?

2) while everything is apart I plan to carefully blow out all debris in motor housing and windings, but while it’s apart, is it recommend to clean the stator and/or armature, or should they be left untouched? The last thing I want to do is ruin a perfectly working motor while trying to service it.

Any tips and trick to help me be successful in this effort would be greatly appreciated.

[JPG]

I consider that to be the correct orientation of the clip.

The clip allows thermal expansion.

Compressed air blowout is all I would do.

Make sure the blast does not dislodge/break anything.

[nv10er]

I consider that to be the correct orientation of the clip.

The clip allows thermal expansion.

Compressed air blowout is all I would do.

Make sure the blast does not dislodge/break anything.

I thank you for the confirmation, sir…