[Adrian]

I did a search and didn't really find any good threads on this specific job.

My release bearing was squeeking all last summer and I've finally got some time to replace it before the car goes on the road this summer. I haven't done this particular job before but it seems easy enough, I just wanted any tips, info, pictures or anything people had to share.

I plan to get the car on some good jack stands, take off the driveshaft, remove the 4 tranny bols and shifter, remove the spedo cable and clutch cable. Get the tranny on a good jack, slide it back and then replace the bearing. Let me know how that sounds or anything I should know about the job.

One question I have is, should I also replace the pilot bearing (bushing) while the tranny is off? The clutch is fine.

Thanks!!!

[tripleblack]

Originally Posted by Adrian

I did a search and didn't really find any good threads on this specific job.

My release bearing was squeeking all last summer and I've finally got some time to replace it before the car goes on the road this summer. I haven't done this particular job before but it seems easy enough, I just wanted any tips, info, pictures or anything people had to share.

I plan to get the car on some good jack stands, take off the driveshaft, remove the 4 tranny bols and shifter, remove the spedo cable and clutch cable. Get the tranny on a good jack, slide it back and then replace the bearing. Let me know how that sounds or anything I should know about the job.

One question I have is, should I also replace the pilot bearing (bushing) while the tranny is off? The clutch is fine.

Thanks!!!

After going to all that trouble, I'd for certain make SURE the clutch really is fine. At least examine the pressure plate fingers for excessive wear, bent fingers, broken or even missing bits. If you see, this, its time for a new clutch.

As for the pilot bearing, replace it. Sure, it can be inspected and examined, yada yada, but its so hard to get to, and costs so little, its nuts not to just replace it while you have it right in front of you.

While you're at it, DO inspect that driveshaft. Any cracks or dents means it needs to be replaced. With lightweight shafts available, you can also save some weight and get some more power to the rear wheels quicker.

Also examine all the tranny and motor mounts while you're at it. The passenger side motor mount is famous for going out. The tranny mounts are easy to replace with the tranny out - so I'd consider them carefully at this time.

If you do pull the pressure plate off the car, be sure to check over the flywheel. Checking, cracks, and any signs of uneven wear mean it needs to be resurfaced or replaced.

Best of luck. Be safe - chain down that tranny if you can. They make very poor pocket protectors.

Also, see if you can rent or borrow a transmission jack or tranny attachment that fits on a hydraulic jack. This will make maneuvering the tranny MUCH easier.

[Adrian]

Thanks for the great info... I will check into all these things. So is the pilot bearing pretty strait forward to replace?

[tripleblack]

Originally Posted by Adrian

Thanks for the great info... I will check into all these things. So is the pilot bearing pretty strait forward to replace?

The pilot bearing is simple (once you have the tranny pulled and the clutch disassembled).

I have a slide hammer (handy for body work too) that I use to remove them, but there are other ways. A simple slide hammer kit from a cheap importer like Harbor Freight costs very little - or you can often borrow one from a parts place.

While you're there, pick up a workshop (Haynes, etc) manual for the car. It will be your best friend by the time you finish the car.

[90GT AOD]

If it were my car, I would replace the whole clutch while I had it all apart, unless it was just done and the bearing was defective. Just my 2¢

[Adrian]

Ya I'll check the clutch and see... I do have the Hanes as well as a couple of other pretty good books. They've been a good help so far. Thanks for the tip about the slide hammer.

[5SpeedGT]

While you're there, you might as well replace the rear main seal. they're notorious for leaking. If you don't do it now, you'll regret it later.

[Adrian]

Hummm... what's that like to replace? What's involved exactly once the tranny is off?