Clutch Release Fork: Service and Repair

CLUTCH RELEASE BEARING AND LEVER

REMOVAL
1. Remove the transaxle from the vehicle.





2. Move the lever and bearing assembly (Fig. 9) to a vertical in-line position. Grasp the release lever with two hands in the pivot stud socket area. Pull with even pressure and the lever will pop off the pivot-stud. Do not use a screwdriver or pry bar to pop off the lever. This may damage the spring clip on the lever.
3. As a unit, remove the lever from the bearing thrust plate. Be careful not to damage retention tabs on bearing.
4. Examine the condition of the bearing. It is pre-lubricated and sealed and should not be immersed in oil or solvent.
5. The bearing should turn smoothly when held in the hand under a light thrust load. A light drag caused by the lubricant fill is normal. If the bearing is noisy, rough, or dry, replace the complete bearing assembly with a new bearing.
6. Check the condition of the pivot stud spring clips on the back side of the clutch release lever. If the clips are broken or distorted, replace the release lever.

NOTE: Remove release lever pivot ball only if replacement is necessary.





7. Remove pivot ball using slide hammer C-3752 and remover/installer 6891 (Fig. 10).

INSTALLATION
1. If removed, install new release lever pivot ball(s) using slide hammer C-3752 and remover/installer 6891 (Fig. 10).
2. The pivot ball pocket in the lever, as well as the lever arms should be lubricated with grease prior to installation.
3. Assemble the lever to the bearing. The small pegs on the bearing must go over the lever arms.
4. Slide the bearing and lever assembly onto the input shaft bearing retainer, as a unit (Fig. 9).
5. Snap the clutch release lever onto the pivot ball.
6. Reinstall transaxle assembly.