When to Replace Fork and Throw Out Bearing

[capejeep99]

When doing a clutch replacement when should the fork and throw out bearing (and/or any other parts located in the bell housing) be done?
I've just lowered the transmission and looking things over. I intend to replace the fly wheel, clutch disc and pressure plate and pilot bearing. I'm not sure if I should replace the components fixed in the bell housing like the fork and throw out bearing. What should I look for to tell if those parts need replacement? They look fine to me, but then I don't really have the experience of what to look for to tell if they should be replaced. Looking for suggestions on how to determine if those parts should also be replaced. Thank you for the help.

 

[JonnyCat63]

I've done a number of clutches over the years, and on every clutch I've ever done, I've replaced the TO bearing. I'd do that for sure. I have not done a clutch on an XJ, as all mine are automatics.

As far as the fork goes, look for any wear on the pivot point(s) and where the forks meet the TO bearing. Most of the time, the wear is minimal, but inspect for those points. I've never had to change a fork because of wear, but it does happen. You'll just have to make that determination. Without actually seeing the fork, I can't really say if I would run it or not.

Regardless, put a small dab of high temp grease on the pivot point(s) and on the fork where it meets the TO bearing, when you re-assemble.

 

[Anak]

I've done a number of clutches over the years, and on every clutch I've ever done, I've replaced the TO bearing. I'd do that for sure. I have not done a clutch on an XJ, as all mine are automatics.

As far as the fork goes, look for any wear on the pivot point(s) and where the forks meet the TO bearing. Most of the time, the wear is minimal, but inspect for those points. I've never had to change a fork because of wear, but it does happen. You'll just have to make that determination. Without actually seeing the fork, I can't really say if I would run it or not.

Regardless, put a small dab of high temp grease on the pivot point(s) and on the fork where it meets the TO bearing, when you re-assemble.

QFT!

You will be kicking yourself if you find yourself having to go back in there to replace the throwout bearing.

On my '96 the throwout bearing completely failed and without warning. It was the bearing which had come with the clutch kit the P.O. put in (Luk clutch I think). That bearing was a POS. I think they include that bearing hoping you will buy another clutch kit when the bearing fails, since you are already in there of course. I put in a premium bearing (Timken or SKF) and everything has been fine for something on the order of 10 years now.

I have yet to need to replace a clutch fork. As was mentioned, look for wear. Look also for cracks.

 

[capejeep99]

Thanks for the replies. I ordered a Luk pressure plate and clutch plate kit which comes with a throw out bearing and pilot bearing. If the throw out bearing looks dubious I may just buy another from another mfr. Looked at the Timken, a bit pricey. But may wind up with that. Doing this, hopefully only once, probably best not to skimp..... . The fork retainer clip was broken so bought a few of those also to replace. Interesting process replacing the clutch. Kind of a pain at times, challenging, but also, if all goes well in the end, I'd like to be good to my Jeep vehicle after all these years (bought her new in 1999). Thanks again for the help!

 

[Anak]

If you look closely at the Luk throwout bearing you will probably find that part of it is made of plastic. That is no bueno. For the amount of work involved in getting to the bearing a premium bearing is worth it to me. There may be others who like taking out the trans just for fun. More power to them, but that is not me.