Actually, the terms ‘throw out bearing’ and ‘clutch release bearing’ are different names for the same component. In the world of automotive engineering and repair, these two terms are often used interchangeably and refer to the same key component located in the clutch system of a manual gearbox. This bearing sits between the clutch pressure plate and the release fork, and its function is to push the pressure plate when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, thereby separating the power connection between the engine and the gearbox and allowing a gearshift operation.

Therefore, from a technical point of view, there is no essential difference. Whether it is called a ‘throw out bearing’ or a ‘clutch release bearing’, it refers to the bearing that plays a key role in the operation of the clutch, which ensures that the clutch can be smoothly engaged and disengaged. It ensures that the clutch engages and disengages smoothly. There may be a preference for one of these terms in some literature or service manuals for a particular make of vehicle, but they refer to the same physical component and function.

The throwout bearing and the clutch release bearing are actually different names for the same component, and they refer to a key part that is mounted between the clutch and transmission of a vehicle. Below is a detailed explanation of this component:

Throwout bearing and clutch release bearing names and definitions

Clutch Release Bearing: also known as a release bearing or throwout bearing, it is an important part in the manual transmission system of an automobile. It is installed between the clutch and the transmission, specifically, it is loosely fitted on the tubular extension of the transmission's first shaft bearing cover.

Clutch release bearing function and working principle

Clutch release bearing function:

The main function of the clutch release bearing is to ensure that the clutch can engage smoothly and disengage gently, thus reducing wear and prolonging the service life of the clutch and the entire transmission system. When the clutch pedal is pressed down, the release bearing moves close to the diaphragm spring claw and contacts it, and through friction, the diaphragm spring moves backward, releasing the clamping force on the pressure plate, lifting the pressure plate from the clutch disc, and realising the separation of the clutch.

Clutch release bearing working principle:

As the clutch pressure plate, release lever and engine crankshaft synchronous operation, and the release fork can only move axially along the clutch output, so it is necessary to make the release lever rotate while moving axially along the clutch output through the release bearing, so as to achieve the clutch engagement and disengagement.

Structure and material of clutch release bearing

Structure: The clutch release bearing usually consists of outer ring, inner ring, rolling elements (such as steel balls or rollers) and cage. The outer and inner rings are usually made of high-grade steel to ensure strength and wear resistance, and the rolling elements provide rolling friction to reduce wear and heat.

Materials: The outer and inner rings are made of materials that are subject to high stresses and high temperatures, and are therefore made of high-strength, wear-resistant steel; the rolling elements may be made of chrome or stainless steel to increase hardness and corrosion resistance; and the cage is often made of synthetic materials, such as nylon or polyamide, due to their low friction and self-lubricating properties.

Frequently Asked Questions and Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions:

Clutch release bearings may suffer from wear, galling, or unusual noises during use. These problems are usually related to insufficient lubrication, improper operation or the quality of the bearing itself.

Maintenance Methods:

Regularly check the lubrication of the bearing and add oil or grease in time.

Pay attention to adjusting the free travel of the clutch to prevent the free travel from being too large or too small.

Minimise the number of clutch engagements and disengagements to reduce the shock load.

Press the clutch pedal lightly and easily for smooth engagement and disengagement.

Precautions

The clutch release bearing has poor working conditions and needs to withstand harsh environments such as high speed rotation, high temperature and shock loads.

Driver's operating habits and vehicle maintenance have a great impact on the life of the clutch release bearing.

To sum up, throwout bearing and clutch release bearing are different names for the same component, and they play a vital role in the automotive clutch system. Through reasonable use and maintenance, the service life of the clutch release bearing can be extended, and the reliability and economy of the vehicle can be improved.