A clutch release bearing, also called a thrust bearing or throwout bearing, is the component that lets the clutch disengage smoothly when the pedal goes down. KBC supplies release bearings for light, medium and heavy duty clutch systems across South Africa and SADC.

Clutch release bearing range, light to heavy duty

It is a small part doing a hard job. Every gear change puts load through it, and when it starts to fail you will usually hear it: a rumble or whine that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed. Left alone, a failed bearing can take the pressure plate fingers with it.

Available for:

• Passenger cars and bakkies
• Light and medium commercial vehicles
• Trucks and buses
• Tractors and agricultural machinery
• Industrial and off-road equipment

Types we supply

• Mechanical release bearings: Conventional fork-operated systems
• Hydraulic release bearings: See our concentric slave cylinders
• Also known as: Thrust bearing, throwout bearing, clutch bearing
• Duty range: Light duty through to heavy duty truck and bus
• Supply: Wholesale to the trade, individually or in kits

Release bearings are supplied individually or as part of a matched clutch kit with the plate and pressure plate. If you are rebuilding, we also stock truck flywheels and clutch facings.

Not sure which part you need?

Send us a photograph or the dimensions and we will identify the exact part for you. It is a free service we have run for years, and it is the fastest way to get the right component when the old part has no legible markings left on it. Get in touch or send the details through and we will come back to you.

Ordering a clutch release bearing

Every clutch release bearing is supplied wholesale, either on its own or matched into a full kit with the plate and pressure plate.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know the release bearing is failing?

Listen for a rumble or whine that changes as the clutch pedal moves. A noise that appears when you press the pedal and disappears when you release it points at the release bearing.

Should I replace it with the clutch?

Yes. It is inexpensive relative to the labour, and the gearbox is already out. Replacing the plate and pressure plate but reusing an old bearing is a false economy.