Clutch Release Bearing

 CAUTION: The bearing is prelubricated and should not be cleaned with solvent.

Wipe all oil and dirt off the release bearing.

Hold the bearing inner race and rotate the outer race while applying pressure. If rotation is rough or noisy, replace the bearing.

Inspect the release bearing assembly for burrs which may cause the assembly to drag on the transmission bearing retainer. If burrs are found, inspect the transmission input shaft bearing retainer for evidence of scoring. Polish out burrs and scoring with a crocus pad.

 CAUTION: Care must always be exercised when applying lubricants to the release bearing, release bearing hub and the release lever fork, as excessive lubricant would contaminate the clutch disc. Misalignment between the engine and transmission can cause release bearing wear and damage.

Apply a thin film of Premium Long Life Grease C1AZ-19590-E (ESA-M1C75-B) or equivalent to the bearing retainer, both sides of the release lever fork where it contacts the release bearing hub and retaining springs, and to the release bearing surface that contacts the pressure plate fingers.

Carefully fill the grease groove inside the bearing hub with Premium Long Life Grease C1AZ-19590-E (ESA-M1C75-B) or equivalent (no polyethylene). Clean all excess grease from the bore of the bearing hub. Excess grease will be forced into the spline by the transmission input shaft bearing retainer and will contaminate the clutch disc.