T56 Throwout Bearing: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

The T56 transmission is a popular choice for high-performance vehicles, and the throwout bearing is a critical component of this transmission. A properly functioning throwout bearing is essential for smooth shifting and long transmission life.

What is a Throwout Bearing?

A throwout bearing is a small, cylindrical bearing that is located between the clutch fork and the pressure plate. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the throwout bearing moves forward and disengages the clutch. This allows the transmission to be shifted into gear.

How Does a Throwout Bearing Work?

The throwout bearing is attached to the clutch fork, which is in turn actuated by the clutch pedal. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the clutch fork moves forward and pushes the throwout bearing against the pressure plate. This causes the pressure plate to move back, which disengages the clutch and allows the transmission to be shifted into gear.

Symptoms of a Bad Throwout Bearing

There are several symptoms that can indicate a bad throwout bearing, including:

• Difficulty shifting gears
• Grinding noises when shifting gears
• Clutch pedal pulsation
• Clutch chatter

Causes of Throwout Bearing Failure

Throwout bearings can fail for a number of reasons, including:

• Wear and tear: The throwout bearing is a moving part, and it will eventually wear out over time.
• Contamination: The throwout bearing can become contaminated with dirt, grease, or other debris, which can cause it to fail.
• Overheating: The throwout bearing can overheat if it is subjected to excessive friction.

How to Replace a Throwout Bearing

Replacing a throwout bearing is a relatively simple task, but it does require some mechanical skills. The following steps will guide you through the process:

1. Remove the transmission: The first step is to remove the transmission from the vehicle. This is a complex process, and it is best to consult a qualified mechanic if you are not comfortable performing this task yourself.
2. Inspect the throwout bearing: Once the transmission is removed, you can inspect the throwout bearing for signs of wear or damage. If the throwout bearing is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
3. Install the new throwout bearing: The new throwout bearing should be installed in the same position as the old bearing. Make sure that the bearing is properly lubricated before installing it.
4. Reinstall the transmission: Once the new throwout bearing is installed, you can reinstall the transmission.

Cost of Replacing a Throwout Bearing

The cost of replacing a throwout bearing will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for the parts and labor.

Prevention

There are several things you can do to prevent throwout bearing failure, including:

• Shift smoothly: Avoid shifting gears too quickly or roughly. This will help to reduce wear and tear on the throwout bearing.
• Use a clutch pedal stop: A clutch pedal stop will prevent the clutch pedal from being depressed too far, which can put excessive strain on the throwout bearing.
• Keep the transmission clean: Dirt, grease, and other debris can contaminate the throwout bearing and cause it to fail. Keep the transmission clean by regularly inspecting it and cleaning it as needed.

Conclusion

The throwout bearing is a critical component of the T56 transmission. A properly functioning throwout bearing is essential for smooth shifting and long transmission life. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent throwout bearing failure and keep your transmission running smoothly for years to come.

Additional Resources

• How to Replace a Throwout Bearing
• Throwout Bearing Replacement Cost
• T56 Transmission Throwout Bearing

Tables

Table 1: Symptoms of a Bad Throwout Bearing

Table 2: Causes of Throwout Bearing Failure

Table 3: Cost of Replacing a Throwout Bearing

Effective Strategies

• Use a high-quality throwout bearing: A high-quality throwout bearing will last longer and perform better than a low-quality bearing.
• Lubricate the throwout bearing regularly: Lubricating the throwout bearing will help to reduce wear and tear and prevent failure.
• Inspect the throwout bearing regularly: Inspecting the throwout bearing regularly will help you to identify any problems early on and prevent a catastrophic failure.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a clutch pedal stop: A clutch pedal stop will prevent the clutch pedal from being depressed too far, which can put excessive strain on the throwout bearing.
• Shift smoothly: Avoid shifting gears too quickly or roughly. This will help to reduce wear and tear on the throwout bearing.
• Keep the transmission clean: Dirt, grease, and other debris can contaminate the throwout bearing and cause it to fail. Keep the transmission clean by regularly inspecting it and cleaning it as needed.

Stories

Story 1

I was driving down the highway when my clutch pedal started to pulsate. I pulled over and checked the transmission, and I found that the throwout bearing was worn out. I replaced the throwout bearing, and my clutch pedal stopped pulsating.

Lesson learned: A worn-out throwout bearing can cause the clutch pedal to pulsate.

Story 2

I was shifting gears when I heard a grinding noise. I pulled over and checked the transmission, and I found that the throwout bearing was contaminated with dirt. I cleaned the throwout bearing, and the grinding noise went away.

Lesson learned: A contaminated throwout bearing can cause grinding noises when shifting gears.

Story 3

I was driving in stop-and-go traffic when the clutch started to chatter. I pulled over and checked the transmission, and I found that the throwout bearing was overheated. I let the transmission cool down, and the clutch chatter went away.

Lesson learned: An overheated throwout bearing can cause clutch chatter.