How to determine the breakdown of the release bearing, causes and symptoms of malfunction

Author: Victor

The release bearing is one of the main clutch elements in a car. Its wear and tear will lead to system malfunctions, resulting in the need to replace the device. In this article we will talk about what signs of malfunction are typical for a release bearing and what the failure of this part can mean for the car.

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Types of release bearings

Before we find out the reasons for the failure and what problems the wear of the bearing device will bring for an Accent car or another model, let’s look at the types of parts.

Today, two types of devices are used in clutch and gear shift systems:

1. Ball or roller. Mechanical parts during operation of which force is transmitted through a rigid bunch of rods.
2. Hydraulic elements. In such devices, force is transmitted via hydraulics. This allows the driver to depress the clutch pedal more easily. Almost all new cars are equipped with hydraulic bearings.
3. Mechanical. Practically not used. Previously, Russian-made cars were equipped with such parts.

How much does a new clutch cost?

Entire clutch kits for the VAZ-2110 are now on sale. The price is 2400 rubles (). The kit includes:

• Driven clutch disc.
• Release bearing.
• Clutch basket.

The catalog number of this product is 2110-1601000-00.

This kit is suitable for VAZ cars of the “tenth” family, as well as Lada Granta. The weight of the set is 4.4 kilograms.

Operating principle

The purpose of the device is to ensure uninterrupted connection and disconnection of the clutch discs when the driver presses the pedal.

The operating principle is as follows:

1. Through the action of the pressure plate, the driven shaft is pressed against the clutch flywheel.
2. The system generates pressure, which is applied to the pressure shaft; this is ensured through the use of a diaphragm spring. Its inner petals are affected by a bearing device.
3. The part moves, resulting in separation of the shafts through the action of the fork.

User Alexey Romanov published a video that will help you understand the principle of operation of the clutch system and release bearing.

Principle of operation

The release bearing can be either push-action or pull-out. It turns the mechanism on and off. The clutch basket is connected to the disc. Today two types of these bearings are produced:

• Roller;
• Hydraulic.

The clutch is used to smoothly disengage the engine from the transmission when changing gears. This approach protects transmission elements from excessive overloads and malfunctions.

One side of the release bearing is made as a round pressure pad, comparable to the diameter of the release springs, located in the center of a part called the clutch basket.

Roller

The release bearing is located on the input shaft protruding from the gearbox, but it is attached to the shaft protective casing and drives the drive fork (rocker arm). The latter presses on a pressure mandrel equipped with special protrusions. The hub moves freely to the input shaft. Damper springs located inside dampen torsional vibrations, they ensure smooth activation.

The pressure plate with the diaphragm spring and the housing form a block called the clutch basket. To create the required force, a diaphragm spring presses on the pressure plate. Inside it is made like metal petals, which are acted upon by a release bearing. It is placed on the axis of rotation as a transmission device connecting the drive to the clutch. The fork (rocker arm) is designed to move the release clutch with the bearing.

Hydraulic

Causes and signs of failure

If the bearing has fallen apart or is just failing, this will lead to problems with the clutch system.

If a bearing fails, it is usually because the unit has worn out from constant use under high loads. Often the cause of a worn and broken unit is holding the clutch pedal in gear for a long time. When a driver makes such a mistake while idling in traffic jams, heavy loads are placed on the device, which leads to its breakdown. Why other parts fail is due to natural wear and tear. If the bearing element is faulty, this can be determined by certain symptoms.

What are the typical signs of failure for a release bearing?

1. The main sign of a failed component is the appearance of extraneous sound. This is usually a noise or knocking noise that can be heard when you depress the clutch pedal of your car. The type of sound may vary. Sometimes the device makes a quiet noise, crunches, crackles or knocks loudly. The louder the sound, the more likely it is that the device has worn out and fallen apart.
2. If the part does not squeak, signs may manifest itself in difficulties in operating the machine. Sometimes the driver fails to reach a certain speed. In some cases, when the car starts moving, it jerks uncharacteristically.
3. Slipping or incomplete disengagement of the clutch. When the driver releases the pedal, slippage occurs and a burning smell appears.
4. The pedal free play has increased. The dynamics of the vehicle deteriorate, the car moves unevenly.
5. Sometimes the failure of the release bearing leads to increased 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.

Malfunctions

If the release bearings are damaged, then extraneous noise appears in the operation of the shafts.

To find out what the malfunction is, you need to depress the pedal (the engine is running). If after this the noise disappears, then the part is not at fault. These signs indicate problems with the gearbox and it needs to be repaired. When the noise continues to intensify, the fault is related to the bearing and it urgently needs to be replaced.

Torque acts on the clutch release bearing only at the moment of pressing. When the pedal is depressed, it goes back together with the driven disc (clutch basket). And then, if the gear is engaged and the pedal is held down for a long time, then uneven loads act on the part. This usually leads to rapid wear, but if all operating rules are followed, repairs will not be needed for long.

But the knocking sound when the clutch pedal is depressed (the engine is running) can intensify in cold weather. Then it's quite possible there's no need to worry. This part is made of heavy-duty steel with a low linear expansion coefficient. The glass, where all the bearing elements are located, is, on the contrary, subject to temperature influences, so knocking may occur periodically. This does not indicate a system malfunction

Changing the release bearing

More information on how to remove and dismantle the bearing device from the coupling:

1. Remove the gearbox. This will provide free access to all components and elements of the transmission and clutch system.
2. Disengage the spring fastening from the coupling. To do this, use a screwdriver or other available tool.
3. Dismantle the failed release bearing from the guide bushing. To do this, you will need to press out the 4 latches of the spring fastening and remove it. After removing the device from the coupling, carefully inspect the device for any defects or malfunctions. Make sure that the part has failed and needs to be replaced.
4. Before changing and installing a new bearing, it must be checked. Delays during rotation of the device are not allowed, as are gaps. If the part is operational, then replace the coupling. When installing, make sure that the inner protruding part of the ring is directed to the side. After installation, the element must be secured with a fastener.
5. Lubricant is applied to the guide, after which the bearing device is installed. The part is secured using a holder.
6. The removed gearbox is installed and the functionality of the device is checked.

1. Remove the gearbox from the car

2. Disconnect the fastener from the coupling

3. Squeeze out the four fasteners and change the part

Removing the gearbox

The procedure for dismantling the gearbox can be performed differently depending on the design features of the machine. Removal of the unit should be carried out 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:

1. Disconnect the clutch pedal cable. Remove it from the bracket.
2. Disconnect the block with wires from the speed sensor installed on the box. Be careful not to damage the connector. To turn it off, press the latches.
3. Using a wrench, unscrew the bolts that secure the ignition module bracket to the gearbox. Also unscrew the screws securing the transmission to the power unit.
4. You will see connectors on the bottom of the gearbox; they need to be disconnected.
5. Remove all screws that secure the torque rod bracket to the transmission housing. It is necessary to loosen the clamp of the rod clamp, which is designed to change gears. Disconnect this element from the hinge.
6. Dismantle the wheel drives. Remove another nut that secures the transmission to the engine.
7. Unscrew the three screws and remove the gearbox housing cover. It remains to unscrew one more bolt that secures the unit to the engine.
8. Under the bottom of the car, find the nuts that secure the left and rear engine support of the car. After this, the gearbox must be carefully moved along the guides. Dismantling the gearbox is carried out with the help of a partner. Replace the release bearing and reinstall the gearbox. Fill with new oil.

1. Disconnect the plug and wire from the speed control sensor

2. Use a wrench to unscrew the screws securing the bracket

3. Remove the screw securing the gearbox to the engine

4. Dismantle the vehicle wheel drives

Troubleshooting

So, let's examine the external condition of the disk. It should not have any traces of carbon deposits or play in the springs. We also look at the petals of the basket. They should not be too bent inward. You should also remove the release bearing. Twirl it with your finger and listen to its work. If it makes noise when rotating, it is already worn out. It is worth noting that the bearings eliminate any noise.

Even if it is barely noticeable, over time it will develop into a real hum. Therefore, in order not to disassemble the box again, we also replace the release bearing with a new one. When installing, it is important not to mix up the sides. As for the lubricant, it is already placed in the cage by the manufacturer. But sometimes companies skimp on lubricants for bearings, which is why they wear out by 30 thousand. For better confidence, you should purchase a specialized lubricant (for example, from VMP-auto) and treat the clip with it again. Further assembly is carried out in reverse order.

How to extend the resource?

To increase the service life of the device, you must drive on smooth roads. In our country, it is problematic to comply with this condition. Keep in mind that uneven roads destroy not only the vehicle’s chassis, but also the clutch system. Therefore, regular off-road driving is also dangerous for bearings. Don't make mistakes when operating your car. When the car is stopped at a traffic light, there is no need to depress the clutch pedal and engage first gear if you do not plan to move. This should only be done at the beginning of movement, since the part operates under high load conditions. Regular lubrication will increase the service life of the device.

Purpose

To understand where the release bearing is located, you need to understand the purpose and design of the clutch. The clutch and all its parts belong to the vehicle's transmission. It ensures the transmission of torque from the engine to the drive axle and wheels, and must be located between these parts of the machine. But an important condition for the location is accessibility in its control by the driver. Most often this is the clutch pedal, less often the lever near the steering wheel. Using the clutch mechanism, the driver periodically disconnects the engine from the transmission. This allows you to stop the car, change the gearbox, and change the driving dynamics.

Video “Guide to replacing and lubricating parts”

Channel “Engine Repair! And interesting!” offers to familiarize yourself with the procedure for replacing the release bearing device and its lubrication in its roller.

Do you have any questions? Specialists and readers of the AUTODVIG website will help you ask a question

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