Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Pilot bearing

[AWallace]

I have searched the forums and there is a lot on this culprit. Since Dec. My truck has been notchey 2nd to 3rd to 4th. There is no grinding or noise as long I shift slow it is fine just not smooth. I have checked the slave cylinder the best I can since it is sealed there is 2 tabs 1 on each side of the cylinder that move in when the clutch is pressed. They never move back. The clutch is releasing. The truck has 115,000 now. I tow a 10,000 lb camper and never had a problem. That liquid gold has been in it about 5000 miles. When I changed it there was no metal flakes in the oil just black. One thing I did notice when I changed it in Nov the part # was different and the oil was thiner than when I changed it before but the bottle said for NV4500 Whata yea think pilot bearing or syncros. Either way I can't stand this much longer.

 

[GCroyle]

there is 2 tabs 1 on each side of the cylinder that move in when the clutch is pressed. They never move back.

The tabs are the remains of the pushrod retaing strap. This strap holds the pushrod into the slave cylinder for pre-installation shipping and ease of installation at the factory. The straps are also a part of the end cap that is between the fork and pushrod avoiding metal to metal contact. After installation, as soon as you push the pedal the straps are stretched and break. They no longer serve any function.