A bearing or bushing retainer comprises two identical, separate segments which are generally c-shaped so as to permit the segments to each be removed from a cylindrical split plastic bearing mounted on a reel toothbar once bolts holding the two segments together are released and the segments moved axially relative to each other so as to disengage respective axially extending tabs of the segments from gaps defined between opposite ends of the segments. The segments have a relatively heavy cross section and are made of sintered powdered metal of relatively high carbon content, and are heat treated thereby resulting in a part having a long wear life and having a natural lubricity resulting in the extension of the wear lives of the retainer and of the bearing retained thereby.