Throwout bearing Removal

[PaintShaker]

I would really appreciate it if someone could please tell me the recommended method for removing the throwout (clutch release) bearing from the hub it's mounted on. The wall of the hub is pretty thin and it looks like it would be hard to press the bearing off without distorting the end of the hub. I couldn't find any information on this subject in the usual sources. I could reach for the hammer, but I thought I'd ask first.

 

[JayJay]

I would really appreciate it if someone could please tell me the recommended method for removing the throwout (clutch release) bearing from the hub it's mounted on. The wall of the hub is pretty thin and it looks like it would be hard to press the bearing off without distorting the end of the hub. I couldn't find any information on this subject in the usual sources. I could reach for the hammer, but I thought I'd ask first.

I clamp a bearing separator behind the throwout bearing and gently press it off the hub. You will need the proper size insert, or at least a piece of thick steel, to avoid distorting the end of the hub. If you don't have these tools yourself any good machine shop should be able to do it for you lickety-split.

 

[PaintShaker]

Nice solution. Thanks very much.

 

[old31]

Many of the auto parts stores will loan you tools at no charge. I am sure that they have a bearing puller outer tool.

 

[Joe K]

Harbor freight has the tool at a good price. Two sizes of collars (you'll use both in time.)

https://www.harborfreight.com/bearing-separator-and-puller-set-62593.html

Joe K

 

[Keith True]

I just find a socket that will just slip through the new bearing.Then I hang the old unit in the vise,with the hub hanging down.Then I tap it out using the socket.They might surprise you.I have held the hub in one hand,and tapped the bearing off with a hammer.They were not a real tight fit.I found that a John Deere engine balancer shaft bushing driver fits perfect too,but that isn't a common toolbox tool.

 

[Marshall V. Daut]

"I just find a socket that will just slip through the new bearing. Then I hang the old unit in the vise, with the hub hanging down. Then I tap it out using the socket."

I just did it that way for the 5,000,000th time on Tuesday. (A rough estimate) Among those past removals, I only had to torch off one throwout bearing that absolutely wouldn't budge. The rest tapped out easily with a good-sized hammer. The suggested tools above are neat to have handy, but this method works 99.9999% of the time and costs nothing. You just need a well-mounted vise on your work bench.

To install the new bearing, orient it so that the broad flat side lies against the closed vise jaws, set the bearing carrier inside the bearing - being sure it's straight - and then place a short piece of 2" x 4" wood across the carrier's top. Hammer on that to drive the carrier into the throwout bearing until it seats. Resist the temptation of hammering directly on the flange of the carrier. That will distort the edge and compromise the carrier's round shape, making it hard to slip the carrier over the transmission front bearing retainer snout.
Marshall

 

[Marshall V. Daut]

By the way, before slipping the throwout bearing its carrier onto the front transmission bearing retainer, smear some chassis grease over the initial 1/3 of the snout for the bearing to slide over. Then give a squirt or two of grease through the Zerk fitting on the carrier. Do not over-grease the snout! Applying grease to the snout and a couple squirts through the grease fitting should last a good LONG time before more is needed down the road.
Marshall