What Is A Throwout Bearing? Its Diagram and How it works
A throwout bearing is a critical part of the clutch system, engaging with the transmission when the clutch pedal is pressed. This interaction affects the engine and wheel functioning by controlling the contact between the clutch plate and flywheel. That is why you need to know about the signs of bad throwout bearing.
In this reading, we’ll explore what a throwout bearing is, its diagram, and how it works. We’ll also learn its signs of failure and replacement cost.
Let’s get started!
What Is A Throwout Bearing?
The throw-out bearing is a component that interacts with every part of the transmission through a sequence of chain reactions as you depress the clutch, producing a sort of precisely timed dance routine. These key transmission components—the flywheel, clutch plate, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing—interact with the crankshaft and gear systems to influence engine and wheel performance.
The throwout bearing regulates how much contact there is between the clutch plate and flywheel when the clutch is depressed. It is located between the pressure plate fingers and the clutch fork, making it essential for the clutch mechanism.
Diagram Of A Throwout Bearing
How A Throwout Bearing Works
During a gear shift, the throw-out bearing disengages a car’s engine from the transmission. As soon as the clutch pedal is depressed, the throw-out bearing reaches the flywheel. This motion causes the release fingers on the pressure plates to move inward. As a result, the pressure plate fingers press against the force of the spring.
By doing this, the engine and wheel are disconnected, enabling gear shifting. Nevertheless, the throw-out bearing returns to its initial position and the transmission-engine connection is restored as soon as the pedal is released.
Signs Of Bad Throwout Bearing
A bad throwout bearing (also known as a release bearing) can cause several noticeable symptoms, especially when it’s time to engage or disengage the clutch. Here are some signs that your throwout bearing may be failing:
Problems with Gear Shift
Do you experience lag or stiffness when shifting gears? It’s likely that the throw-out bearing isn’t functioning properly and isn’t engaging. You will probably go through instances when the throwout bearing shakes and produces noise before it fails and causes gear change issues before you encounter this problem.
A problem with the clutch
Does depressing your clutch pedal need a lot more force from you? Special lubricants are used in the manufacturing of all clutches to enhance their longevity. But with time and use, there may be some wear and tear.
Strange Sounds
You have a wider space between the rollers in your clutch if the clutch pedal produces noise as you press on or release it. The clutch pedal has rollers that are meant to be close to one another. The increased distance between these rollers causes a variety of noises that may appear to originate in the transmission area.
This primarily occurs as a result of the car’s gradual wear and tear. When you apply the brakes, you will hear the noise caused by the throw-out bearing. Release the brakes, and the noise will stop.
Vibration
Your throw-out bearing has to be checked if the clutch pedal begins to vibrate when depressed. This occurs when the pressure plate and the throw-out bearing are unable to line up.
Every car is susceptible to throw-out bearing wear over time, even if some have it more frequently than others. You can prevent early wear and tear of a throw-out bearing by observing the following tips:
Adjust Driving Habits
Changing how you engage the clutch pedal in your car is one of the simplest ways to delay throw-out bearing wear. It is advisable to only engage the clutch for as little time as possible. In other words, when you stop, put your automobile in neutral rather than keeping your foot firmly planted on the clutch.
Routine Maintenance
The easiest method to make sure that your transmission and clutch are properly maintained at all times and ultimately extend the life of your automobile is to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended routine maintenance schedule for your particular car.
When it’s time to repair the clutch on your automobile, make sure the automotive specialists do a thorough job using OEM parts. Routine clutch replacement should include replacing the throw-out bearing.
Regular Inspection
Regular inspections by your automotive technician can help identify throw-out bearing failure early, allowing for prediction of potential clutch or transmission problems. The throw-out bearing is pre-lubricated and sealed for the car’s lifespan, making replacement challenging and requiring transmission removal. If the throw-out bearing malfunctions, it is recommended to replace the clutch pedal to prevent further issues and expenses.
Throwout Bearing Replacement Costs
The price range for repairing a throwout bearing ranges from $30 to $820, not including taxes, fees, or specific car details. The replacement typically takes 4 to 6 hours for a skilled mechanic and costs between $75 and $120 per hour for labor.
It’s recommended to leave this job to professionals unless you have the necessary tools, space, and knowledge. The total cost at a mechanic shop ranges from $330 to $820, including parts costing $30 to $100 and labor costing $300 to $720. Make sure to use the appropriate parts for your car model if you plan to replace the throwout bearing yourself.
