1966-427 clutch release bearing

[Richard E.]

What is the correct lubrication required when installing a new release bearing? I have a new bearing purchased from GM. Should the groove where the fork attaches be coated with grease, and if so, what type of grease?

Should the inside diameter of the bearing (where it rides on transmission shaft) be coated with grease, and if so what type of lubricant? It makes sense to lubricate, but I would not want grease to get on the clutch disc.

Appreciate comments on proper installation of a release bearing. Thank you.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1966-427 clutch release bearing

Rich------

With some of the newer GM bearings such as the Delco CT-24AG instructions for greasing are packaged with the bearings. As I recall, the instructions provide that only a light coat of grease be applied to the inner circumference of the bearing and a very light coat on the face of the bearing which contacts the clutch fingers. I would not apply more than that. Use a high quality, EP chassis lube.

Older clutch release bearings had a wide, shallow groove on the inner circumference. This groove was supposed to be packed with grease. However, these old-style bearings are long-gone.

Most of the "action" on a clutch release bearing takes place between the inner and outer shells. This is the area with the ball bearings and which is factory-packed and sealed with grease.

[Richard E.]

Re: 1966-427 clutch release bearing

Thanks Joe. I am using the Delco CT24AG bearing which I ordered under part number 15680264. Unfortunately it did not come with instuctructions. It was just wrapped in some special treated brown paper. If my recall is correct, I think the direction to grease the fork groove came from a tech. note on the Car Quest Automotive Store web site. You would not suggest putting grease in this area? Thanks again.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1966-427 clutch release bearing

Rich------

You can apply a very thin coating to the fork groove area.

[John H.]

Re: 1966-427 clutch release bearing

Yes, the fork groove should be lubricated; it doesn't spin, so it won't throw any lube anywhere. I use gray moly lube - same thing the factory used originally. Also, make sure both the fork AND the flat spring are BOTH in the fork groove - the design allows it to be assembled incorrectly to the fork.