The Clutch Release Bearing, also often referred to as the Throw-Out Bearing, is a key component of the clutch system in an automotive manual transmission. Its main function is to push the clutch pressure plate when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, causing the clutch disc to separate from the flywheel, thereby disconnecting the power connection between the engine and the transmission and allowing the driver to shift gears.

The main causes of wear or failure of the throwaway bearing (clutch release bearing) can be summarised as follows:

1. Normal wear and tear: As time and frequency of use increase, the bearing will gradually fail due to natural wear and tear.

2. Lubrication problems:

Insufficient lubrication: bearings do not get enough lubricant, resulting in increased friction and accelerated wear.

Deterioration of lubricant: The lubricant deteriorates due to high temperature, pollution, etc. and loses its lubricating effect.

3.Overload use:

Overuse of the clutch: Frequent operation of the clutch especially under heavy load or high torque.

Clutch disc wear: when the clutch disc is worn out, the pressure plate travelling distance increases, resulting in increased bearing load.

4. Improper installation and adjustment:

Improper installation: Failure to follow the correct installation procedure or use of unsuitable tools results in the bearing being installed too tightly or too loosely.

Improper clutch adjustment: Incorrect setting of air gap, etc., which puts unnecessary pressure on the bearing.

5. External factors:

Foreign matter intrusion: Dust, sand and other impurities enter the bearing interior through poorly sealed parts, causing wear.

Moisture intrusion: In a humid environment, moisture may intrude into the bearing and cause rust.

High temperature and corrosion: working in high temperature or corrosive environment for a long time accelerates bearing wear.

6. Design and manufacturing problems:

Poor material: bearings are made of low quality materials and are prone to wear.

Manufacturing defects: there are defects in the manufacturing process, such as inadequate heat treatment, insufficient machining accuracy, etc.

7. Operating habits:

Frequent half-linkage operation: causes the bearing to be in friction for a long time, accelerating the wear.

Incorrect driving habits: such as rapid gear shifting or rough driving, increasing the burden on the bearings.

8.Vehicle accidents: 

Vehicle impacts, especially near the transmission system, may damage the bearings.

9. Inadequate maintenance: 

Lack of regular maintenance and inspection leads to problems not being detected and solved in time.

In order to reduce the wear and tear of the release bearing and prolong its service life, the following measures can be taken:

1. Ensure that the bearing is properly lubricated and check the condition of the grease regularly.

2. Avoid overloading the clutch and minimise the number of times the clutch is operated frequently.

3. Follow the correct installation procedure and use the appropriate tools for the installation.

4. Keep the clutch and its surroundings clean to prevent the intrusion of foreign objects.

5. Regularly check the condition of the bearings to detect and deal with potential problems in time.

6. Choose reliable quality bearing products and pay attention to its material and manufacturing process.

Clutch release bearing, if damaged, how will it affect the vehicle?

The throwaway bearing, i.e. clutch release bearing, if damaged, will cause the following effects on the vehicle:

1. Abnormal Noise: A damaged bearing can produce a noticeable noise, such as a ‘humming’ or ‘rattling’ sound, when the vehicle is in operation, which can interfere with the driving experience and may mask other potential mechanical problems.

2. Difficulty in clutch operation: This may cause the clutch pedal to feel heavy or to feel rough when shifting gears because the bearing is unable to effectively transmit the movement of the pressure disc.

3. Decreased power: Due to problems with the clutch system, power transmission is less efficient, acceleration is reduced and the vehicle feels underpowered.

4. Increased vehicle vibration: More vibration may be felt while driving, especially if the bearing is badly damaged, and this vibration may be transmitted to the whole bodywork through the suspension system.

5. Impaired directional control: Damaged front wheel bearings may cause the vehicle to run off the road, affecting handling stability, while flat bearing problems directly affect the response of the steering system, increasing steering wheel vibration.

6. Suspension damage: Long-term bearing damage can cause excessive wear or even damage to other parts of the suspension system, such as suspension arms and ball joints.

7. Safety risk: In extreme cases, bearing damage may affect the fixation of the wheel hub, which in severe cases may cause the hub to fall off, which is extremely dangerous and may lead to traffic accidents.

8. Reduced driving comfort: Driving comfort is significantly reduced due to increased noise and vibration.

9. Increased maintenance cost: If not replaced in time, the damaged bearing may damage other components in the clutch system, thus increasing the overall maintenance cost.

Therefore, the clutch release bearing should be inspected and replaced as soon as signs of damage are detected to avoid more serious vehicle problems and safety hazards.