Jeep Release Bearing
The release bearing or sometimes called as throw out bearing is a ball bearing
and a collar assembly in which it is used to reduce the friction between the pressure
plate fingers and the release fork. The Jeep release bearing is a sealed device
that is enclosed in a metal housing with heavy lubricant inside. It usually works
by sliding on a hub sleeve which extends out from the front of the transaxle or
the manual transmission gear box.
Jeep release bearing only functions when the clutch pedal is depressed, and
disengages the clutch when not in use. To hold the release bearing in place, a
small spring clips the bearing on the fork. In operation, the bearing breaks over
the end of the clutch fork. The fork’s movement would then slide the release bearing
in either direction along the transmission hub sleeve.
When the driver presses the clutch pedal, the release bearing applies the needed
power to the spinning pressure plate fingers. The pressure plate fingers are then
forcedly pressed against the release clutch. When the clutch pedal is depressed,
the Jeep release bearing do nothing and does not make any contact to the pressure
plate fingers.
A release bearing tend to wear out over time. Some of the most common symptoms
of faulty release bearing can be growling or buzzing sound every time you apply
the clutch. Premature wear of the release bearing can be caused by insufficient
clutch reaction and less lubrication. This will make the bearing to spin continuously.
If your bearing starts to fail, it may cause premature wear out for the pressure
plate fingers. The Jeep release bearing does not require regular maintenance.
However, it should be replaced when doing a clutch replacement to ensure utmost
clutch efficiency.
