Each vehicle periodically requires replacement of the release bearing. Not only comfort, but also the safety of movement by car depends on its condition. After reading the article, you will learn how the bearing works, what functions it performs, what signs will tell about its malfunction and how to replace it.
The role of the release bearing
A clear gear change on the mechanics is possible only when the input shaft of the gearbox (gearbox) is disconnected from the engine. This principle is true for any machine with a manual transmission. The clutch disc is in constant contact with the flywheel, due to the fact that the basket presses the disc against its surface. To disconnect the input shaft of the gearbox from the engine, it is necessary to press the release fork on the basket, forcing it to squeeze the petals and release the disc. For this, a release bearing (VP) is needed, which transfers the force from the fork to the rotating clutch basket. When the clutch pedal is depressed, a cable or hydraulic drive activates the transmission fork. In turn, the fork, with the help of a bearing, presses on the basket and disconnects the transmission from the engine. Such a device is used on those clutches where there is one disc. A clutch where more than one disc is installed, the basket works a little differently. The basket releases the first disc, then the springs move the second disc away from the flywheel surface. On all vehicles with a manual transmission, it is located in the clutch bell (housing), at the end of the fork that connects the basket and the clutch actuator.
How to determine the state of a VI
The main signs of a part malfunction are extraneous sounds (the bearing makes noise or whistles) when the clutch pedal is fully depressed and the engine is running. To check the bearing, squeeze the clutch at different speeds. It is advisable to perform this operation together, if the part is noisy, it is better heard not from the cab, but from the side of the hood. If it makes noise only in a small rev range, then most likely the problem is in some kind of poorly tightened nut. If the part makes noise at any engine speed, then this indicates a bearing malfunction, therefore it must be replaced. If you hear these signs while driving on the highway, do not be alarmed. From malfunction to jamming, it will work at least 10 thousand kilometers. After all, the bearing makes noise due to the wear of the rollers and the vibration caused by this, and the principle of its operation is such that it is very far from noise to destruction.
Bearing replacement tools
To work you will need:
- pit, overpass, lift or jack, two props and wheel chocks;
- a set of spanners and open-end wrenches;
- stand to support the box.
If you are repairing a front wheel drive car, then you will need:
- hub nut wrench;
- new hub nut;
- chisel;
- hammer.
Replacing the VP
Roll your car onto an overpass, pit or lift. If this is not possible, jack the front left side and support the support. Then lift up the front right side and prop up.
Do not work under a car without a partner. If something goes wrong, he can lift the car and pull you out, or at least call for help. Be sure to remove the terminal from the battery.
If you are repairing a front wheel drive vehicle, first loosen the front wheel and hub nuts.
After picking up the car, remove the checkpoint. On rear-wheel drive cars, this requires unscrewing 4-6 nuts and bolts that connect the flanges of the propeller shaft and the gearbox output shaft. After that, move the shaft to the side so that it does not interfere with the dismantling of the box. Remember, the box weighs 10 or more kilograms, and complete with the transfer case, its weight can reach 50 kilograms. If you have an off-road off-road vehicle, then before removing the gearbox, unscrew the bolts and nuts that connect the flange of the transfer case and the front shaft. If you have an off-road vehicle with independent front suspension, first disconnect the rear shaft, then proceed in the same way as with front-wheel drive vehicles.
If you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, then the release bearing should be replaced as follows. Remove the front wheels, unscrew the hub nuts, remove the thick metal washers from the CV joint shaft. Then remove the steering pin nut and ball nuts / bolts. Pull the steering pin out of the rack using a puller. Press the hub down, remove the strut from the CV joint shaft and take it to the side.
After that, on front and rear wheel drive vehicles, support the gearbox. On powerful SUVs, if possible, it is necessary to maintain the checkpoint from the passenger compartment. Disconnect the clutch hydraulic or cable drive and remove all nuts holding the bell to the engine. Pull on the box to slide the input shaft out of the engine. Place the box on the table.
Press the VP lock and remove it from the input shaft. The installation of a new VP must be carried out in the reverse order. 
Do not forget to lubricate the splines of the input shaft with grease (Litol or its analogs). On front wheel drive vehicles, install new hub nuts and, after tightening to the required torque, tighten them with a chisel and hammer. After installing the shafts, be sure to check whether you have tightened all the nuts, whether you have placed the lock washers everywhere.
Self-repair is not difficult
Now you know the main symptoms of a malfunction of this unit and the principle of its operation, you understand what to do if it makes noise and you can replace it yourself. This will help you keep your vehicle in good working order. The repair technology is applicable to all machines where a cable or hydraulic clutch drive is installed.
The release bearing is one of the main clutch elements in the machine. Its wear and tear will lead to malfunctions in the system, as a result of which the device will need to be replaced. In this article, we will talk about what signs of malfunction are characteristic of a release bearing and what the failure of this part is fraught with for a car.
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Release bearing types
Before finding out for what reasons the failure occurs and what problems the wear of the bearing device for the Accent car or another model will bring, we will analyze the types of parts.
Today, two types of devices are used in clutch and gearshift systems:
- Ball or roller. Mechanical parts, during the operation of which the force is transmitted through a rigid bundle of rods.
- Hydraulic elements. In such devices, the force is transmitted by means of hydraulics. This allows the driver to depress the clutch pedal more easily. Almost all new cars are equipped with hydraulic bearings.
- Mechanical. Practically not used. Previously, Russian-made cars were equipped with such parts.
Operating principle
The purpose of the device is to seamlessly connect and disconnect the clutch discs when the driver presses the pedal.
The principle of operation is as follows:
- Through the action of the pressure plate, the driven shaft is pressed against the clutch flywheel.
- The system is pressurized, which is applied to the pressure shaft, this is ensured through the use of a diaphragm spring. A bearing device acts on its inner petals.
- The part moves, as a result of which there is a separation of the shafts through the action of the fork.
User Alexei Romanov published a video that will allow you to understand the principle of operation of the clutch system and release bearing.
Causes and signs of breakage
If the bearing falls apart or just fails, this will lead to malfunctions in the clutch system.
If a bearing is defective, it is usually because the device has worn out from constant use under high load conditions. Often the cause of a worn and broken device is long-term holding of the clutch pedal with the engaged speed. When the driver makes such a mistake, standing in traffic jams, heavy loads are placed on the device, which leads to its breakdown. Why else parts fail because of natural wear and tear. If the bearing element is faulty, this can be determined by some symptoms.
What are the signs of malfunction characteristic of a release bearing:
- The main symptom of a failed component is the appearance of an extraneous sound. This is usually a noise or knock that can be heard while depressing the vehicle's clutch pedal. The type of sound can be different. Sometimes the device makes a quiet noise, crunches, crackles, or knocks hard. The louder the sound, the more likely the device is worn out and broken.
- If the part does not beep, the symptoms may show up in the difficulty of operating the machine. Sometimes the driver is unable to engage a certain speed. In some cases, when the car starts moving, it jerks uncharacteristically.
- Slipping or incomplete disengagement of the clutch. When the driver releases the pedal, slip occurs, and a burning smell appears.
- The pedal free play has become more. Vehicle dynamics deteriorates, the vehicle moves unevenly.
- Sometimes the failure of the release bearing leads to an increase in fuel consumption and even overheating of the engine.
The channel "VAZ 2101-2107 REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE" published a video from which you can learn about malfunctions, as well as diagnostics of the release bearing device.
How to check the release bearing
How to find out if a device needs to be replaced:
- Start the vehicle engine. Listen to how the machine works, if there are any extraneous sounds.
- Step on the clutch pedal with your foot. If noises appear after starting the engine, and then when the clutch is squeezed out, they disappear, then a detailed diagnosis of the transmission system should be performed. If the sounds remain the same or become louder, then the bearing device must be changed.
Change the release bearing
For details on how to remove from the coupling and dismantle the bearing device:
- Dismantle the transmission. This will provide free access to all units and elements of the transmission and clutch system.
- Disengage the spring clip from the clutch. To do this, use a screwdriver or other handy tool.
- Disassemble the failed release bearing from the guide sleeve. To do this, you need to squeeze the 4 clips of the spring mount and remove it. After removing the device from the coupling, carefully inspect the device for defects and malfunctions. Make sure the part is out of order and needs to be replaced.
- Before changing and installing a new bearing, it must be checked. Rotation delays are not allowed, as are gaps. If the part is functional, replace the clutch. When installing, make sure that the inner protruding part of the ring is directed to the side. After installation, the element must be fixed with a fastener.
- A lubricant is applied to the guide, after which the bearing device is installed. The part is attached with a holder.
- The removed gearbox is being installed, the operability of the device is checked.
1. Dismantle the transmission from the machine 2. Disconnect the fastener from the coupling 3. Release the four fasteners and change the part
Removing the checkpoint
The procedure for dismantling the transmission can be performed in different ways depending on the design features of the machine. Remove the unit with an assistant. Before dismantling, the vehicle battery is disconnected and removed, as well as the transmission fluid is drained.
How to remove the gearbox:
- Disconnect the clutch pedal cable. Remove it from the bracket.
- Disconnect the block with wires from the speed sensor installed on the box. Be careful not to damage the connector. To disconnect, press the latches.
- Use a wrench to remove the bolts that secure the ignition module bracket to the transmission. Also remove the screws securing the transmission to the power unit.
- At the bottom of the gearbox, you will see the connectors, they must be disconnected.
- Remove all screws that secure the tie rod bracket to the transmission housing. It is necessary to loosen the clamp of the tie rod, which is intended for gear shifting. Disconnect this element from the hinge.
- Dismantle the wheel drives. Unscrew another nut that secures the gearbox to the engine.
- Remove the three screws and remove the gearbox housing cover. It remains to unscrew one more bolt that secures the unit to the engine.
- Under the bottom of the car, find the nuts that secure the left and rear engine mounts of the car. After that, the gearbox must be carefully slid along the guides. Dismantling the gearbox is carried out with the help of a partner. Change the release bearing and reinstall the transmission. Refill with new oil.
1. Disconnect the plug with the wire from the speed control sensor 2. Unscrew the screws securing the bracket with a wrench. 3. Remove the screw securing the gearbox to the engine 4. Dismantle the car wheel drives
Consequences of failure
As for the consequences, if the device breaks down, this will lead to the appearance of noise uncharacteristic for the operation of a car. The hum may increase over time. There will be a crackling, crunching sound. As a result, when the bearing is completely worn out and falls apart, it will be difficult to engage gears. It will be difficult for the driver to shift the transmission lever. Over time, gear shifting will become impossible.
How to extend the resource?
To prolong the life of the device, you must drive on level roads. In our country, it is problematic to comply with this condition. Be aware that uneven roads not only destroy the vehicle's chassis, but also the traction system. Therefore, regular off-road driving is also dangerous for bearings. Do not make mistakes when operating a car. When the car is at a traffic light, you do not need to depress the clutch pedal and engage first gear if you do not plan to move. This should be done only at the beginning of the movement, since the part works under high loads. Regular lubrication of the device will increase the service life of the device.
Clutch breakage is one of the troubles that can lie in wait for the driver on the road. Usually, the car simply stops moving, while the engine is working normally. Such a breakdown does not always occur suddenly, often before this one can observe some signs of an imminent breakdown.
Clutch failure symptoms
In general, the main signs of a clutch malfunction are clutch slippage and incomplete disengagement.
In case of incomplete disengagement (pedal pressed), there is a difficult shift in gears when the engine is running, noise and crackling when shifting gears, a large free travel of the clutch pedal. When the clutch “slips” (the pedal is released), you can smell a burning smell in the cabin from burning clutch disc linings, the dynamics of the car will deteriorate, the engine may overheat.
It is good if the driver notices such signs of a clutch malfunction in time, in which case you can get to the car service even without assistance, you just need to drive slowly, do not accelerate and carefully shift gears, preferably using the so-called "double clutch release" and "overrunning" when switching ...
At the same time, to switch to the highest gear, the clutch pedal is depressed, the gearshift lever is held in neutral position, the clutch pedal is released, then pressed again, after which the corresponding gear is engaged.
To switch from high to low gear, the gearshift lever is also held in neutral, the clutch pedal is released and the gas pedal is pressed a little, after which the clutch is again squeezed out and the desired gear is engaged. Having mastered such a gear change, you can not only reduce the load on the clutch parts, but also significantly extend the "life" of the gearbox.
Causes and main clutch malfunctions
The most common cause of clutch failure is improper vehicle operation. For example, if the car "sat down" in the snow, and you continue to accelerate the acceleration, or you really like to get under way with slipping - all this will reduce the service life of the clutch.
In addition to the clutch disc itself, the release bearing can also "fly" - it serves to smoothly engage and disengage the clutch. Usually, before the release bearing "dies", you can hear a characteristic squeal - this is a sure sign that the bearing needs to be replaced.
In principle, in the event of a sudden breakdown of the release bearing, you can continue to move, however, you will not be able to use the clutch, because it will be constantly on. For this reason, you will have to get under way either from the tug or by turning on the starter and first gear (the car will immediately start moving and then start), of course, if you have enough "strength".
As soon as the car starts and picks up speed in first gear, release the throttle, immediately engage second gear, and in the same way, shift into third. When switching, the main thing is to catch the right moment when the speed of rotation of the gearbox shaft and the motor coincide, otherwise a crunch will be heard when switching.
Of course, you need to resort to this method only as a last resort and if there is no way to deliver the car to the service in another, more gentle way for it.
By the way, when replacing the release bearing, the service station may advise you to replace the clutch disc as well. In fact, this does not always need to be done if the clutch disc is in good condition.
The reason for the failure of the clutch can also be a breakdown in the mechanism of its drive, for example, a breakage or jamming of the clutch drive cable, breakdown of the lever system, leakage from the hydraulic drive, if the clutch is hydraulic, or other similar breakdowns in the drive.
Video: clutch breakage, how to get to a car service or home on your own (this is sometimes possible).
As you can see, it is possible to continue driving in some cases even if the clutch is faulty. All of these recommendations will come in handy for owners of a car with a manual transmission. Good luck!
The release bearing, which is part of the clutch system, plays an important role in the operation of the vehicle. Thanks to him, the clutch is turned on and off. The process starts as the pedal is connected to the clutch release bearing located in the middle of the disc, which presses against the basket petals.
In modern car mechanisms, 2 types of bearings are used: roller bearings and hydraulic ball bearings. The first one is conventional, it is a mechanical device transmitting force due to a rigid linkage of thrust. Hydraulic operates by force generated by the hydraulic system, which does not require the application of pedal pressure. The clutch function is to smoothly disengage the transmission from the engine when shifting gears. I cannot single out for myself which of the two mechanisms is better. They both have a long lifespan if used carefully and correctly.
The device of this mechanism is as follows: by means of pressure, the pressure disc presses the driven disc against the flywheel. The flywheel hub connects to and moves along the input shaft. Damping springs inside the shaft reduce vibrations. Thanks to this, the inclusion is smooth. And in order to create the required force, the diaphragm spring acts on the pressure plate. The inner diameter of the spring, made in the form of metal petals, is influenced by the clutch release bearing. It is located on the axis of rotation. It functions as a transfer device between the clutch and the drive.
I often come across the misconception that the release bearing rotates exclusively when the machine is moving. But in reality, when the clutch is depressed, the torque drive is supplied to the clip. Holding the clutch in gear for a long time will put an uneven load on the bearing. For this reason, parts wear out quickly. After all, when the vehicle is moving, it remains at rest, starts to work when changing gears. Any breakdown leads to the impossibility of further driving. 
Malfunction symptoms
The release bearing is very important for the operation of the entire vehicle mechanism. Therefore, if any deviations appear, you should not postpone them for a long time. From my own experience, I know that the sooner the problem is fixed, the better.
The main sign of wear is a knock when the engine is running, which sounds when the clutch is squeezed. There is one caveat, though. This characteristic sound is amplified at low temperatures - so it can be ignored during the winter season. But, when the whistle near the clutch pedal increases, you need to replace the part. In the summer, a similar sound almost always guarantees the appearance of problems.
The clutch release bearing has the advantage of being highly durable. So sometimes, when a knock appears, it is possible to observe the further development of events. The sound may not be amplified. But I still recommend starting a repair or replacement. The reason why it fails is most often the human factor. Many drivers keep their feet on the clutch while the gear is out. For this reason, in most cases, the clutch release bearing breaks down. 
In my case, the situation was even simpler. Starting the engine, I put in reverse gear to drive out of the garage. At the moment of pressing the clutch pedal, a sharp crunch was heard - evidence of a failed pressure or driven disc. Due to the inability to continue driving without the presence of a reverse gear, it was necessary to urgently eliminate the problem that had arisen. And I wondered how to change the release bearing?
Replacement and repair
Replacing a failed release bearing can be done on your own. I, having a little experience in car repair, carried out this procedure quickly enough. First of all, I remove the gearbox, disengage the spring clip. I remove the bearing from the guide sleeve. With the help of tools, I squeeze the "paws" of the spring holder and take out the part. Before installing a new one, I check it with great care. Better to look through and feel everything carefully than to redo the work twice. It is not permissible for the bearing to jam, its rotation should be light, without backlash.
When installing a new part on the coupling, make sure that the part of the inner ring that protrudes is looking to the side. It can be easily fixed by means of the holder. I apply lubricant to the guide sleeve and only then replace it with another. It is secured with a clutch using a spring clip. I put the checkpoint in place.
The new spare part will work properly up to 150 thousand km. mileage. But it is often necessary to replace the release bearing every 50 thousand km. due to the driver's mistakes and poor road surface.
Video “Replacing the release bearing”
The record shows how you can replace the release bearing and lubricate the worker.
It is helpful for the driver to know all the signs of a malfunctioning clutch release bearing. After all, problems with this element usually begin unexpectedly. And the continuation of the operation of a car with such a malfunction can lead to a complete failure of the clutch. Traction failure on the road is an unpleasant problem that cannot be easily solved.
The car has to be towed to the garage, which is a rather laborious process. A tow truck is not cheap. It is much easier to monitor the condition of the bearing and the rest of the clutch well in advance. This will save you from possible problems along the way.
Device
Symptoms of a malfunctioning clutch release bearing directly stem from the structure of this part. At the moment, two types of such bearings are used in automotive clutch systems:
- Roller (mechanical);
- Hydraulic;
The release bearing, contrary to popular belief, does not spin all the time. It comes into operation only when the clutch is depressed. At this moment, the bearing squeezes out the disk, and the torque is transmitted to it. Therefore, it is not recommended to keep the clutch squeezed out for a long time, this increases the load and, accordingly, wear.
The mechanical bearing consists of two elements. The main part is the bearing race itself. A plastic casing is located on top of it, and the drive lever is attached to it. The hydraulic bearing features an outer casing structure. It is able to move relative to the cage when pressure is supplied from the hydraulic drive system.
Danger to the bearing
The first and most important danger is described in the previous part of the article. Therefore, never keep your foot on the clutch pedal all the time.Another hazard that often leads to breakdowns is an external factor. Many drivers drive through mud, puddles, snow. Some are forced to do this due to the poor quality of the roads, while others go fishing and hunting. In any case, water and dirt gets under the bell of the box. Because of this, the grease contained in the release bearing loses its properties. This leads to increased wear and tear, and, accordingly, the failure of the part.
The average bearing life is about 150,000 kilometers. In case of careless use or bad roads, this period is reduced by 3 times.
Symptoms of malfunctions
The release bearing is quite reliable, but it still breaks sometimes. To avoid complete failure, it is necessary to diagnose the failure in a timely manner. Timely replacement will save you from unnecessary hassle in the event of an unexpected refusal.
The first sign is a knock that appears when the clutch is squeezed out (the engine is running). This indicates the beginning of the destruction of this structural element. But there is one nuance here. If the knock is observed only in frosty weather, and after the engine warms up, it disappears, then there is no breakdown. It's all about the plastic casing. In the cold, it shrinks somewhat and the clip begins to knock. After warming up the engine and gearbox, everything returns to normal.
If while squeezing the clutch you hear a whistle from the side of the pedal, then most likely the release has run out of grease. or replace with a new one. Also, in very rare cases, a sign of a malfunction may be the impossibility of switching on the gear. This happens in the event of a complete destruction of the bearing. What happens very rarely is that the part is made of high-strength steel.
Repair and service
Like any spare part in the car, the release bearing requires attention. At the first sign of a malfunction, replace it with a new one. During operation, it is advisable to lubricate it periodically, this should be done every 70,000 kilometers. If the machine is operated in difficult road conditions, then it is better to reduce this mileage.
Even if there is a knocking and whistling sound, you should finally make sure that the problem is in the bearing. To do this, you will have to remove the box. The only way to determine the condition of a part is to pick it up. Replacement bearings require damage - cracks, chips. Check how free it spins. Even the slightest wedging is unacceptable. If no signs of malfunction are found, then you can lubricate it and reinstall it. The problem will most likely go away.
