Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Flywheel Pilot Bearing Failure: At What Mileage?

[Matt42]

After many miles of stop and go driving, I am wondering if my clutch or needle bearing need attention.



So, at what mileage did your pilot bearing seize (if it has)?



Was your driving mostly highway or stop and go?



Perspiring minds want to know!



Thanks.

 

[radixr]

Pilot Bearing Failed!

Last year my clutch was replaced (69,897 miles) and the pilot bearing fell out in pieces. The input shaft was ok but would not have been for much longer. :--) Mileage was a mix of highway and stop and go.

 

[jrobinson1]

I had truck for about 30k and the bearing fell to pieces.



First time into clutch since owned but the clutch looked new. Maybe the last owned didn't change the needle bearing with the clutch but I would guess 50 - 60k. Truck was around 230k at the time.



Needed new input shaft.



90% highway





james

 

[illflem]

No flame intended but mileage doesn't mean anything, it's how much you use the clutch. I could probably use my clutch more in one day in Seattle than an entire year in Montana. I've seen pilots go out as early as 25k and never replaced at 200k.

 

[Matt42]

Originally posted by illflem

No flame intended but mileage doesn't mean anything, it's how much you use the clutch. I could probably use my clutch more in one day in Seattle than an entire year in Montana. I've seen pilots go out as early as 25k and never replaced at 200k.

Illflem: No flame taken! My typical drive has a traffic light every 1/2 mile for 5 miles. Then back again. Hence the two part question, about type of driving.

 

[drawson]

I have had 3 pilot go south on me. The last one while on Vacation up by Glacer. When the last one went it cracked the center of my clutch disc and cause the clutch not to disengage. IMO it isn't the amount of times the clutch is pushed in but the amount of time is stays in. Anytime the clutch is dispressed the pilot is spinning. Long stop lights and traffic have more effect on it's life than miles or kwik shifts.



I am making it a habit to put the trans in neutral at stop lights and let the clutch out.

 

[CumminsPower98]

I second drawson's comment about going to neutral at stop lights. I figure why put all that extra wear on the pilot and throwout bearings for nothing.