The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Self Aligning Clutch Release Bearing

Well heck, it looks like I need to replace my throwout bearing. I'm bummed, because it wasn't that long ago that I replaced the whole shebang, but I'm getting a squeal out of it mostly when I'm shifting into gear and then when I begin to engage the clutch. I don't want to wait at all and damage the pressure plate or anything else for that matter. It's easy enough to replace.

Here is what I would like to get some advice on, if possible. Given that the bearing has not been in a long time and also that the possibility exists for there to be contributing issues that lead to what seems like premature failure do you think it would be advisable, or maybe just a reasonably good idea to install a "self aligning" clutch release bearing ? I just read about them. My thought is that in the use of one, perhaps there would be some compensation to allow for maybe some components being not particularly kosher, which includes the "mechanic".

Thanks,
Tony

Start with the fact that most parts are made offshore and many simply don't meet the quality standards of old.
Also check the bearing retainer on the transmission. If it is excessively worn or under-size the bearing may not slide properly.
Another wear area is the release arm. Some wear on the fork could be an issue.
I don't have any knowledge of a specific product known as a "self aligning" release bearing. I believe if all the components are within the wear standards, all bearing would be "self aligning".
Fred

Hey Fred. Thanks for the response. I've considered the possibility of there being a lack of quality on the installed bearing. I just didn't want to go there. Ha ! Either way it needs replacing.
I went to the Rock Auto site just for kicks and found numerous options for the bearings, some being the so called "self aligning". I wasn't aware of the type. I then did a search on the subject and here is one of the pages I checked out https://static.summitracing.com/global/images/instructions/skf-xls5-1-8a_yh.pdf. My thought was is that it wouldn't hurt to try, presuming all of the measurements are within tolerance to what I have now. It's been a sweet working clutch. Easily actuated, super smooth 11 incher.
I'll take a look at the parts you mentioned though when I get the tranny out.

Tony

While you've got the bearing out, carefully push the bearing assembly off the carrier and check out how much grease the manufacturer put into it. The offshore-made bearings are notorious for being assembled virtually dry, with just a tiny amount of lube. The bearing balls are usually visible once the bearing is pressed off the carrier that slides on the transmission front bearing retainer snout. A squirt of a high temperature lubricant like Lubriplate white grease has cured many an ill where noisy throwout bearings are concerned.
Jerry

Good to know, Jerry. I've always been leery of how well "sealed" bearings are lubed.

I had the same issue a couple of years ago. Finally went to eBay and found a nice vintage made in USA nos green company throw out bearing. Not a moments trouble since.