Clutch Release Bearing Introduction

Clutch release bearing, also known as "clutch release bearing", is a key component in the manual transmission system of automobile. It is installed between the clutch and the transmission, and the convex shoulder of the release bearing is always pressed against the release fork by the return spring, and backed up to the last position, keeping a certain clearance with the end of the release lever (release finger). The main function of this component is to cut off or transmit engine power by pushing the pressure plate to separate or engage the friction plate when the clutch is engaged and disengaged.

The clutch release bearing is a compact device consisting of a number of basic components, the main parts of which include an outer ring, an inner ring, rolling elements (balls or rollers), a cage and a contact surface. These components work together to enable the clutch to engage smoothly and disengage gently, reducing wear and prolonging the service life of the clutch and the entire driveline.

The main features of release bearings are as follows:

- Structure: The release bearing usually consists of inner and outer rings, rolling elements (steel balls or rollers), cage and seals.

- Material: The outer sleeve ring and rolling element of the bearing are usually made of high carbon chrome steel to withstand the high temperature and wear during clutch operation.

- Function: When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release bearing pushes the clutch pressure plate to separate the clutch plate from the flywheel, cutting off power transmission.

What happens when the clutch release bearing breaks down

When the clutch release bearing fails, it will have a significant impact on the driving performance and driving comfort of the car. The specific performance is as follows:

1. Sound or noise: when the clutch release bearing is damaged, there may be "rustling" or "squeaking" sound, which will bring unnecessary anxiety and stress to the driver.

2. Difficulty in shifting gears: If the release bearing is badly damaged, the clutch will lose its normal function, resulting in the vehicle being unable to shift gears smoothly. This can have a direct impact on driving safety, as the driver may not be able to complete the shifting operation in a timely and accurate manner.

3. Difficulty in starting: In some cases, damage to the clutch release bearing may also cause difficulty in starting the vehicle.

4. Accelerated wear and tear of other components: If the clutch release bearing is not replaced in time, it will further affect the service life of other components. For example, the suspension system, engine and other components related to the transmission system depend on the good working condition of the clutch, while the damage of the clutch release bearing will accelerate the wear of these components.

5. Heavy clutch pedal: Damaged bearings may lead to incomplete clutch disengagement, requiring the driver to exert more force to depress the pedal.

6. Unstable power transmission: unstable clutch operation may result in uneven power output while the vehicle is in motion.

Clutch Release Bearing Replacement

Replacing the clutch release bearing is a relatively complex process that requires certain specialized knowledge and tools. The following are the general replacement steps:

1. Prepare tools and materials: Prepare the tools and materials needed to replace the clutch release bearing, including wrenches, torque wrenches, rubber hammers, jacks, oil pan gaskets, new clutch release bearings, and so on.

2. Disassemble related parts: Park the vehicle on a flat surface and cut off the power supply. Then remove the vehicle's lower cover plate, oil pan, guard plate and other related parts to get a clear view of the clutch system. Next, remove all clutch pressure plate, clutch friction plate, separator and other parts.

3. Remove the release bearing: Use a specific tool to remove the clutch release bearing. Pay attention to the need to be careful when using the tool to avoid damaging the relevant parts.

4. Clean the mounting position: Before replacing the new clutch release bearing, the mounting position needs to be cleaned to remove impurities such as dust and dirt to keep it clean.

5. Install the new release bearing: Install the new clutch release bearing to the original position, pay attention to the correct positioning, to avoid the installation error caused by the vehicle can not start. Use tools to gently tap the release bearing to ensure that it is firmly installed. Then, apply appropriate amount of lubricant and install the dust cover of the release bearing.

6. Reassemble the clutch system: After inspection, reassemble the clutch system. Make sure that the installation position of each part is correct and that parts such as fastening screws and nuts have been tightened.

7. Test drive and adjustment: Finally, start the vehicle for a test drive to test whether the clutch is working properly. If there is any abnormality, it is necessary to re-check and adjust the relevant parts until the clutch system works properly.

Replacing the release bearing is a technical job, it is not recommended to replace it by yourself, it is recommended to be operated by professional maintenance personnel to ensure the safety and normal working of the clutch system.

Extending the service life of the clutch release bearing can be realized by the following methods:

1. driving correctly:

   - Avoid prolonged semi-coupling, i.e. moving the vehicle slowly without the clutch pedal being fully depressed.

   - Avoid rapid acceleration and deceleration and try to operate the vehicle smoothly.

   - In traffic congestion, use the appropriate gear and reduce the frequency of clutch use.

2. Regular inspection and maintenance:

   - Inspect the clutch system, including the release bearing, regularly to ensure that there is no wear or damage.

   - Keep the clutch system lubricated and clean by changing the clutch fluid regularly as recommended by the manufacturer.

3. Use high quality components:

   - Choose release bearings of well-known brands. High-quality bearings usually have a longer service life.

   - When replacing other parts of the clutch system, such as the clutch disc and pressure plate, choose high quality products as well.

4. Avoid overloading:

   - Avoid overloading the vehicle. Excessive load will increase the working pressure of the clutch and accelerate the wear of the release bearing.

5. Proper thermal management:

   - Avoid driving under high load for a long time, such as climbing slopes or towing heavy loads, these conditions will cause the clutch to overheat and shorten the life of the release bearing.

6. Prompt maintenance:

   - If any abnormality is found in the operation of the clutch, such as heavy pedal, strange noise or incomplete disengagement, it should be inspected and repaired immediately.

7. Driving habits:

   - Avoid unnecessary rapid gear shifting to reduce the shock load on the clutch.

   - When waiting at a stop, if a long stopping time is expected, put the gear in neutral and release the clutch pedal.

In conclusion, the clutch release bearing is an important part of the vehicle clutch system, and its main function is to help separate the clutch disk from the flywheel through the principle of mechanics when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, so as to interrupt the power transmission between the engine and the transmission. Replacing the release bearing is a highly technical task and is recommended to be performed by professional maintenance personnel to ensure safety and normal operation of the clutch system.