[Mozz]

Has anyone heard of problems with AutoZone throwout bearings? This will be the third time that in 75000 miles that I have had to replace these things. The last time I noticed that the little ring that centers the throwout bearing on the collar looked like it would pop out without much effort. That one lasted about 30000 miles. This time I replaced everything 2 weeks ago but noticed a slight rattle a few days later. Today I pulled the fork and could see that the lttle metal ring and a plastic ring were up against the clutch. There is a bigger ring that is supposed to hold the other two in that also came out and is now sitting perfectly inside the pressure plate fingers. The big ring that engages the pressure plate is still intact but I think it is going to come apart soon. I guess its cheap Autozone crap. I used the kevlar pilot bushing this time but I guess I should have also bought an aftermarket throwout bearing that is built better. Any thoughts or comments? Here is a pic of the last one with the inner metal ring throwout bearing

 

[golfer]

...how's your input shaft in the trans?

any (radial) play in it?

 

[Mozz]

I had a friend that is a Ford Mechanic look at it and he said that it was ok.

 

[golfer]

my guess is that it isn't OK... /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[Mozz]

Im open to the possibility, so for arguments sake lets say it is. Even so since the throwout bearing rides on the collar and not the input shaft why would that cause the throwout bearing problem

 

[action4478]

Not that YOU are,,,but, the only times I have seen this is totaly old, Riding the clutch, & out of adjustment....Just a WAG...

 

[Mozz]

I pay close attention to my shifting so as I dont ride the clutch. Keep in mind this is less than 2 weeks old so even riding the clutch shouldnt do it in that quick or at least I wouldnt think so. I looked at an OEM THrowout bearing and it looks much better built and its alot heavier than the AutoZone one.

 

[action4478]

There is some difference of opinion here on whether the TO bearing is supposed to touch the pressure plate only when shifting or run on it all the time.My opinion is they are not made to spin constantly,or there would be a way to lube them. Considering how much work it is to change them ,I would certainly get the best one I could & make sure it is the correct one....Of course ,opinions are like (you know what)..everybody has one....

BTW auto zone is the last place I would get one,,,(more opinion)...

 

[Mozz]

I agree on the AutoZone issue. I talked to the guys at SouthBend and they say that it is suppose to contact all the time. I dont know, but thats what they said.