Manual Transmission Maintenance

Inspect for Wear
In addition to replacing the pilot bearing, follow the same procedure for the throw-out bearing on the transmission. The reason is that release issues can be caused due to a worn pilot bearing and/or scoring of the inside collar of the throw-out bearing.


Always inspect hardware for wear and replace with new, factory specified or higher quality aftermarket hardware. As one example of the latter, Centerforce makes a wide range of high-performance upgrades for many types of vehicles. What makes a Centerforce clutch produce more clamping power is the innovative application of a well-known phenomenon: centrifugal force.

Upgrade Parts
As any Physics 101 student already knows, as the flywheel and clutch assemblies rotate faster, this rotational force increases. Simply by adding weights in a precise amount at the right places (on the clutch fingers), pressure increases on the clutch disc as engine rpm increases.


Because of this weighted configuration, the Centerforce I Clutch System provides 30 percent more holding power when compared with a stock setup, the company claims. What this should mean for your clutch is that you'll have a light pedal feel but increased grip. Other benefits of this setup include making your vehicle move faster while reducing heat and increasing clutch life.

Check Your Manual
Whether you take advantage of Centerforce's engineering innovations or not, the company has a number of other installation recommendations for clutches in general. Obviously it's a good idea to start by checking out factory-approved service manual before beginning any clutch removal and installation procedures. Also, use only factory recommended fluids in transmission and clutch release hydraulic systems to ensure proper release and maximum life of the clutch components. Centerforce says that some aftermarket synthetic transmission fluids do not always provide the necessary friction levels required for proper transmission operation.