Clutch Release Bearing (Throw Out Bearing) Details

 What is a Throw Out Bearing?

The clutch release bearing, also known as the “clutch throw out bearing” or clutch bearing, is a key component in a manual transmission vehicle. It is located between the clutch pressure plate and the flywheel. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release bearing applies force and pushes on the clutch pressure plate, separating the pressure plate from the flywheel and interrupting the transmission of power between the engine and the transmission. This allows the driver to shift gears without stalling the engine.

 Clutch Throw Out Bearing Working Principle and Function

- Working Principle: When the clutch pedal is depressed, the release bearing receives pressure from the clutch master cylinder, which is transmitted to the release bearing through the booster, causing it to push the clutch pressure plate backward, separating the friction plate between the pressure plate and the flywheel, and cutting off the power transmission. When the clutch pedal is released, the release bearing is no longer under pressure, and the pressure plate returns to its original position under the action of the return spring, resuming power transmission.  

Clutch Throw out bearing function:

  1. Realize clutch disengagement and combination: push the clutch pressure plate through rolling friction to realize the interruption and resumption of power transmission between the engine and transmission. 2. Reduce friction and wear: compared with the clutch pressure plate, the clutch pressure plate is not as strong as the clutch pressure plate.

  2. Reduce friction and wear: Compared with sliding friction, rolling friction can significantly reduce friction and wear, extending the service life of the clutch system.

 When is it necessary to replace the clutch throw out bearing?

The following conditions may indicate that the clutch throw out bearing needs to be replaced:

1. Abnormal Noise: Sharp metallic friction or rattling sound is heard when the clutch is depressed. 2.

2. Difficulty in shifting gears: The clutch does not disengage completely, resulting in jerky or incomplete shifting.

3. Heavy clutch pedal: The clutch pedal stroke becomes longer or feels heavy, affecting the driving experience.

4. Uneven gearshift: The gearshift does not feel smooth, has stuttering or shaking phenomenon.

5. Incomplete clutch disengagement: causes difficulty in shifting gears or a feeling of shock when shifting gears.

 Clutch Throw out bearing replacement cost and cost components:

The total cost of replacing a clutch release bearing varies depending on a number of factors, including the model year, repair location, brand of part and quality of service. Here are the detailed cost components:

1. parts cost:

   - The cost of clutch release bearing parts for ordinary models usually ranges from a few dozen to several hundred RMB.

   - High-end models or special configurations, the cost of parts may be higher. 

2. Labor hour cost:

   - Removing and installing the clutch assembly: this is the main labor hour cost because replacing the release bearing usually requires dismantling the gearbox.

   - Inspection of related parts: The mechanic may inspect other related parts such as the clutch pressure plate, clutch disc, etc. to ensure that the whole system is working properly.

   - Adjusting the clutch pedal: The height and travel of the clutch pedal may need to be adjusted after replacement to ensure the clutch can work properly.

   - Labor hourly rate: Labor hourly rate varies greatly among different repair locations. 4S stores or specialized workshops usually have higher labor hourly rates, while independent repair stores may have relatively lower rates. The average labor hour rate is about 120 to 300 RMB per hour, and the total labor hours may range from 4 to 10 hours, so the labor cost may be 480 to 3,000 RMB (80-500USD).

3. Other costs:

   - Diagnostic fees: Additional diagnostic fees may be required if the problem was not previously identified.

   - Additional Repair Costs: Additional costs will be incurred if other damaged parts (e.g. clutch pressure plate, clutch plate) are found during the replacement process.

   - Lubricants and other consumables: Although most modern designs of release bearings do not require direct lubrication by the user, in some cases it may be necessary to replace the lubricants or other consumables.

4. Total Cost Estimate:

   - Considering the above factors, the total cost of replacing the clutch release bearing may range from a few hundred to several thousand RMB. The exact cost depends on factors such as the model, repair location, brand of parts and quality of service.

 What do I need to pay attention to after clutch Throw out bearing replacement?

1. Break-in period:

   - After replacing the new clutch release bearing, there should be a break-in period to avoid aggressive driving and frequent hard acceleration and braking. It is usually recommended to keep driving gently for the first few hundred kilometers after replacement, the exact mileage can be based on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

   2. Correct operation:

   - Ensure that the clutch is used correctly during driving and avoid prolonged semi-linkage to minimize unnecessary wear and tear.

3. Regular Inspection:

   - Regularly check the working condition of the clutch system, detect problems and deal with them in time to ensure the normal operation of the clutch system.

4. Test drive:

   - Carry out a test drive after replacement to check the working condition of the clutch and ensure smooth shifting and no abnormal noise.

5. Adjust the clutch pedal:

   - It may be necessary to adjust the height and travel of the clutch pedal after replacement to ensure that the clutch can work properly.

6. Note abnormalities:

   - If any abnormality occurs after replacement, such as abnormal noise, difficulty in shifting, etc., it should be checked promptly to avoid repeated repairs.

 Summarize

Clutch release bearing is a key component in manual transmission vehicles, responsible for clutch release operation. When a failure occurs, the replacement cost is mainly composed of the cost of the part and the high labor cost, which may total from a few hundred to a few thousand RMB. After replacement, proper use and maintenance is critical to ensure vehicle performance and extend the life of the new part.

To ensure the quality and safety of the replacement, it is recommended to choose a regular 4S store or a professional garage for the replacement, and to understand the market price and quality of the parts so as to better communicate and negotiate with the garage.