Automotive clutch release bearing and its price overview

 I. Clutch Release Bearing Definition and Function

Automotive clutch release bearing (Clutch Release Bearing), referred to as the release bearing, is an important part of the automotive clutch system. It is installed between the clutch and the transmission, and the release bearing seat is loosely attached to the tubular extension of the bearing cover of the first shaft of the transmission. By means of a return spring, the convex shoulder of the release bearing always rests against the release fork and recedes to its final position, maintaining a certain clearance (usually 3~4mm) with the end of the release lever (release finger). Its main function is to ensure that the clutch is able to engage smoothly and separate gently, thus reducing wear and prolonging the service life of the clutch and the whole transmission system.

 Clutch release bearing working principle

1. Depressing the clutch pedal: when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the hydraulic system or mechanical linkage transmits the force to the clutch release bearing. 

2. Push the clutch pressure plate: the release bearing moves forward and pushes the clutch pressure plate to separate the clutch disc from the flywheel.

3. Interrupts power transmission: as the clutch disc separates from the flywheel, no more power from the engine is transmitted to the gearbox, allowing the driver to shift gears smoothly.

4. Releasing the clutch pedal: when the driver releases the clutch pedal, the release bearing returns to its original position and the clutch pressure plate presses the clutch disc again, resuming power transmission.

 Third, the main components of the clutch release bearing

1. Bearing: contains internal ball or roller, used to reduce friction and wear. 

2. Shell: protects the internal bearing, provides support and positioning.

3. piston: in a hydraulic system, the piston pushes the release bearing forward.

4. spring: in some designs, the spring is used to help the release bearing reset.

 Clutch Release Bearing Function and Role

1. Smooth gearshift: Ensure smooth separation and combination of clutch disc and flywheel, reduce shock and vibration during gearshift. 

2. Extend life: extend the life of the whole clutch system by reducing the wear and tear of the clutch system.

3. Improve safety: reliable release bearing can reduce the safety risk caused by clutch failure.

 V. Common problems and failures of clutch release bearings

1. Wear due to lack of lubricant: Clutch release bearings need grease for lubrication. If this is neglected in practice, resulting in clutch release bearing lack of oil, then in the case of no lubrication or less lubrication release bearing wear will be lubricated several times to dozens of times, the temperature will also have a great increase, and thus more likely to be damaged.

2. Free travel is too small or loaded too many times: according to the requirements of the general clutch release bearing and the clearance between the release lever for 2.5mm is more appropriate, reflected in the free travel on the clutch pedal for 30 ~ 40mm. free travel is too small or no free travel at all, will make the release lever and the release bearing in the state of constant engagement, resulting in bearing working time is too long, damage is serious. At the same time, the more loaded times, the more likely to produce fatigue damage to the separation bearing.

3. Other factors: whether the separation lever is adjusted flat or not, whether the separation bearing return spring is good or not, etc. also has a great influence on the damage of the separation bearing. If the separation adjustment is not flat, the separation fork is deformed or the spring of the release bearing is not returned to the position, it will cause the release bearing to be resisted in the work of the clutch, so that it is always in the working state and the temperature is getting higher and higher, which will easily burn the release bearing and reduce its service life.

 Clutch release bearing maintenance and repair

1. Avoid half-engaged and half-disengaged state: drive the vehicle according to the operation regulations to avoid half-engaged and half-disengaged state of the clutch, so as to reduce the number of times the clutch is used.

2. Regular lubrication: Pay attention to the maintenance of the vehicle, regularly or in the annual inspection and maintenance, use the steaming method to let the grease soak through the release bearing, so that it has sufficient lubricant.

3. levelling the clutch release lever: pay attention to levelling the clutch release lever to ensure that the spring force of the return spring is in accordance with the regulations.

4. Adjust the free stroke: Adjust the free stroke to meet the requirements (30~40mm) to prevent the free stroke from being too large or too small.

5. Smooth operation: try to press the clutch pedal lightly and easily during driving to make it smoothly engage and disengage.

 VII. Price overview of automotive clutch release bearing

The price of automotive clutch release bearings varies depending on the brand, quality, model and sales channel. The following is a detailed analysis of the price of automotive clutch release bearings:

 Automotive clutch release bearing price range

1. economic vehicles:

   - Common brand: about between 100-300 RMB (15-50 USD).

   - Famous brand: about 200-500 RMB (30-100 USD).

2. Mid- to high-end vehicles:

   - General brands: approximately between RMB 300-800.

   - Well-known brands: approximately between RMB 500-1200.

3. Luxury brand vehicles:

   - General brands: approximately between RMB 800-1500.

   - Well-known brand: may be more than 1,000 RMB, even up to 2,000 RMB.

 Factors affecting the price of clutch release bearing

1. Clutch release bearing brand and quality:

   - Original parts: usually produced by car manufacturers, reliable quality but higher price.

   - Aftermarket parts: produced by third-party manufacturers, the price is relatively low, but the quality and warranty policy may be different.

2. Clutch release bearing material and technology:

   - High-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques can lead to increased costs, which can lead to higher prices.

   - Some premium brands may use special lubricants and sealing technology to improve durability and performance.

3. Vehicle model and complexity:

   - The design of clutch systems varies from model to model, with some models having more complex release bearings that cost more to produce.

   - The release bearings of luxury brand vehicles usually have higher precision and durability requirements, so the price is also higher.

4. Region and distribution channels:

   - Labour costs and transport costs in different regions will affect the final price.

   - The cost of 4S shops and professional repair shops is usually higher than that of general repair shops.

 How to choose the right automotive clutch release bearing?

1. Determine the applicable model of the clutch release bearing:

   - Check the vehicle owner's manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer to confirm the exact model and specifications of the required clutch release bearing.

2. Consider brand and quality:

   - Choose a well-known brand or original parts, although the price is higher, the quality and warranty policy is more guaranteed.

   - For limited budget, you can choose aftermarket parts with good reputation, but make sure they meet the original standard.

3. Check product certification:

   - Confirm whether the product has relevant certifications, such as ISO 9001, etc. These certifications can guarantee the quality and consistency of the product.

4. Refer to user reviews:

   - Check the reviews and feedback from other users before purchase to understand the actual performance and service life of the product.

5. Consult professionals:

   - If you are not sure which brand or model to choose, consult a professional repair technician or auto parts salesperson.

Summarise

Automotive clutch release bearing is an important component that ensures smooth gear shifting and reliable operation of the vehicle. By understanding its working principle and function, as well as regular inspection and maintenance, you can effectively extend the service life of the clutch system and ensure driving safety and comfort. The price of automotive clutch release bearings varies depending on the brand, quality, model and sales channel. The price of release bearings for economical vehicles usually ranges from RMB 100-300 (US$15-100), for mid-to-high-end vehicles it ranges from RMB 300-800 (US$50-200), and for luxury branded vehicles the price may exceed RMB 1,000 (US$200). When choosing the right release bearing, factors such as brand, quality, suitability and user reviews should be taken into account to ensure that you are purchasing a cost-effective and reliable component. We hope this article can provide you with useful information to help you better understand and select automotive clutch release bearings.