What is the function of clutch release bearing?

Clutch release bearing is a kind of thrust bearing (commonly known as clutch spring Du plate). Its function is to move the pressing plate or driving plate bearing the spring thrust towards the clutch housing when pressing the clutch pedal, that is to say, when pressing the clutch pedal, the release lever is turned to overcome the spring thrust of pressing plate to complete the clutch separation. The release lever of the clutch rotates with the pressing plate, while the operating mechanism linked with the clutch pedal cannot rotate. In order to adapt to the different motion conditions between the two, the thrust bearing is used to reduce the friction and wear. If the release bearing loses its sliding function due to lack of oil, it will not only produce abnormal noise, but also aggravate the Al damage of the force point of the release rod, so the effective range of the clutch pedal starting pressure plate is smaller and smaller. When the clutch plate and the pressure plate are not completely separated, the gear shifting will produce abnormal noise. The wear of the release rod will cause uneven or incomplete starting of the pressing plate. The driving and the driven are involved with each other, and finally the gear cannot be changed.

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What is the clutch thrust bearing?

The clutch thrust bearing (also known as the release bearing or the throw-out bearing) is a small but important part of your car’s clutch system. It is mounted on the housing of your clutch and slides on a hollow shaft. Attached to the clutch bearing is the clutch fork, which moves the clutch bearing with the help of hydraulic or cable pressure.

While the clutch pedal is pushed down, the bearing moves inward. The bearing will apply pressure to the spring of the pressure plate, freeing the clutch disc from the flywheel and interrupting the transmission. This allows you to correctly and safely engage and switch gears.

Enhance Performance and Smooth Shifting with Clutch Thrust Bearing Replacement

What causes clutch thrust bearing problems?

In most vehicles, the clutch bearing isn’t a scheduled maintenance item. This means that it usually lasts the life of the vehicle. However, the clutch thrust bearing can become worn over time, especially in older vehicles. This is due to constant contact with other parts and exposure to heat and cooling, worn off clutch lining dust entering the clutch trust bearing through failure / damage to clutch thrust bearing seals.

Another common cause of damage to the clutch trust / release bearing is if the clutch cable is not adjusted over time, and the clutch release / throw out bearing is in constant contact with the clutch pressure plate. This will cause it to constantly spin reducing it’s life dramatically.

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Improper clutch use can shorten the life of clutch components such as the thrust bearing. Examples of improper clutch use include:

• Not starting your vehicle in first gear

• Downshifting several gears at a time (4th to 1st)

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• Skipping gears (1st to 3rd)

Symptoms of a failing clutch thrust bearing:

• Unusual Noise: One of the most noticeable symptoms is a grinding, squealing, or whining noise when you depress the clutch pedal. The noise may occur when you engage or disengage the clutch, or it may persist while the clutch pedal is held down. This noise is usually caused by the failing bearing not spinning smoothly or having worn-out components.
• Clutch Pedal Vibration: A failing thrust bearing can cause vibration or pulsation in the clutch pedal when it is depressed. This vibration can be felt as an abnormal sensation through the pedal.
• Difficulty Shifting Gears: A failing clutch thrust bearing can make shifting gears more challenging. You may experience difficulty engaging or disengaging gears smoothly, and there may be resistance or grinding when attempting to shift.
• Clutch Slippage: As the thrust bearing wears out, it can lead to clutch slippage. This means that the clutch fails to fully engage and transmit power from the engine to the transmission. You may notice a loss of acceleration, a decrease in engine power, or the engine RPMs increasing without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
• Clutch Drag: A failing thrust bearing can also cause clutch drag, which means the clutch does not fully disengage when the pedal is pressed. This can result in difficulty shifting into neutral or when changing gears, as there may be resistance and grinding.
• Abnormal Clutch Engagement Point: The clutch engagement point, the point at which the clutch begins to engage after releasing the pedal, may feel inconsistent or different from normal. It may be higher or lower than usual, making it harder to find the right engagement point.

Clutch thrust / release bearing replacement in Hamilton

Are you experiencing unusual noises, difficulty shifting gears, or clutch-related issues in your vehicle? It might be time to consider a clutch thrust bearing replacement.

At Grimmer Motors, our trustworthy mechanics are skilled in all sorts of clutch bearing related services. This allows us to quickly identify, diagnose and fix clutch bearing problems in your vehicle. 

Benefits of clutch thrust/release bearing replacement:

• Enhanced Clutch Engagement: A worn-out or failing clutch thrust bearing can lead to inconsistent clutch engagement, making it difficult to find the right engagement point and resulting in rough shifting. By replacing the thrust bearing, you can restore smooth clutch engagement, allowing for precise gear changes and seamless transitions between gears. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or maneuvering through city traffic, a properly functioning thrust bearing ensures smooth clutch operation.
• Elimination of Unwanted Noises: One of the most common signs of a failing clutch thrust bearing is the presence of grinding, squealing, or whining noises when operating the clutch. These noises can be distracting, annoying, and indicate potential damage to other clutch components. By replacing the worn-out thrust bearing, you can eliminate these unwanted noises, promoting a quieter and more enjoyable driving experience.
• Prevention of Further Damage: A failing thrust bearing can cause additional wear and tear on other clutch components, leading to more extensive and costly repairs in the future. Ignoring a worn-out thrust bearing can result in clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and even clutch failure. By proactively replacing the clutch thrust bearing, you can prevent further damage to the clutch system, saving you time, money, and potential breakdowns on the road.
• Improved Performance and Safety: A properly functioning clutch system is vital for the performance and safety of your vehicle. A worn-out thrust bearing can negatively impact clutch engagement, shifting responsiveness, and overall driving performance. By replacing the thrust bearing, you can restore the clutch system’s efficiency, enhance vehicle control, and improve the overall safety of your driving experience.

We can replace your clutch release / trust / throw out bearing for you, allowing your stick shift / manual transmission to run correctly. For clutch release / thrust bearing replacement in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!

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