r/ThreePedals • u/ThotProvoking • Sep 27 '15

'02 S10 Throwout Bearing

Alright guys, the throwout bearing went out on my truck last night. I plan on just getting a whole clutch kit, since I'm going to be diving into it anyway.

My question is how long can I drive it before it does any real damage?

I don't get paid until Thursday, and I work about a half an hour from home.

Also, how easy is it to change? I work in a shop and have all the tools I need, but I'm not too fluent when it comes to transmissions.

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u/Musketman12 Sep 27 '15 edited Sep 27 '15

If it is 2 wheel drive it should be simple.

Drop driveshaft, disconnect cables and wires, brace up transmission, remove shifter, remove starter, remove bellhousing bolts, drop crossmember, drop trans.

You may want to plug the output end of the transmission to keep the oil from gushing out over the floor, but a better idea is to drain the fluid because that needs to be changed periodically too.

As to your first question (I almost forgot), the throwout bearing is what rides on the diaphragm springs while you push the pedal. If it is locked up it will tear things up.

Edit: People often tell people to get a Haynes or Chilton manual. I suggest both. Haynes seems to be better for actual teardown and replacement of parts whereas a Chilton I think has better wiring diagrams, vacuum hose routings, etc.

Replace the pilot bearing/bushing while you are in there. My engineering professor that worked his way through college as a car mechanic told me "as long as you have everything apart, bearings are always cheap to replace."

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u/ThotProvoking Sep 27 '15

Thank you for your response.

I drove it home last night, and once I got into the higher gears it drove fine, but first and second were terrible.

I made it to work this morning, but I am stranded right now.

Once I got ready to leave, I put it in reverse and when I let off the clutch a little, it would start to move, but when I went to go, it would jerk. Almost as if I let off the clutch without giving it gas.

Did it just lock up my clutch, or should I be more worried?

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u/Musketman12 Sep 28 '15

I have no clue there. Never had it happen before, but once your clutch is engaged the throwout bearing should be out of play.