Throwout bearing diagnostics

[jayson.devries]

I'm trying to figure out the normal operation of a throwout bearing...

When I took mine out, I noticed that if I pushed on it while turning it, it would be a bit scratchy; when I pulled on it, it rolled smoothly.  Pic below:


http://picasaweb.google.com/jayson.devries/1973VolkswagenSuperBeetle#5568008865583673394

Thinking that scratching sounds and bearings don't mix I figured I needed a new bearing.  $100+ later I get a new bearing (SACHS #3151 136 031) and check it - same thing.

So I'm thinking:

A) This is normal for throwout bearings (which kinda makes sense since they "pull" not "push"), or
B) I just spent $100+ on another bad bearing

Any idea which it is?  (I'm hoping for good news)

Thanks,

Jayson

[volkenstein]

Jayson,
          Pic no 2 is the way it works in day-to-day operation, and given it operates smoothly I'd call it good. I'll check my spare tomorrow, but I don't think anything is wrong. You could disassemble it to check and grease it up good 'n' proper. I know Lee has ripped one completely apart, so he's probably better qualified to answer.

HTH
Volkenstein

[travbo24]

Jayson,
I agree...the bearing is designed to run smoothly as the ears are pulled rather than pushed.  It's probably good.  Pulling it apart to be sure isn't a big deal.  It's just a snap ring on the backside and the whole thing comes apart.  Just keep track of how it comes apart, grease it up, and then put it back together. Might as well while you have it out...that was my thinking anyway.  If all goes well, you won't have another opportunity to do it for a long time.

Take care!!
Travis

[68autobug]

HI Jayson ,
Yes as Sean has said, the clutch throwout bearing is PULLED Not pushed....
and I pulled Mine apart cleaned and regreased with lithium based MOLYgrease
and put back together...   is difficult to put back together....
but should last another 40 years.....
Seeing You have two of them.... that's 80 years... 

I have two spares tp pull apart and regrease...

cheers

LEE

[jayson.devries]

That's what I wanted to hear.  Thanks guys.  Jayson

[68autobug]

That's why it took Me months to get My car into gear...
I was thinking the clutch arm was going the other way... lol

Took a couple of manuals to a local non VW mechanic and he showed Me how it worked..
Had it going the next day....  lol

so, books don't matter if you don't know what You are doing... 

cheers

LEE