Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Thrust bearing

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero — Thrust Bearing

Yes, a thrust bearing is relevant on a 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. On manual-transmission models, the clutch release bearing is commonly referred to as a thrust bearing. Technical sources that document this include the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual for 1983–1991 (L040/L141) — Group 21: Clutch, which specifies inspection and replacement of the release (thrust) bearing, the Haynes Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1983–1996 manual, Clutch chapter, which outlines diagnostics and service for the release bearing, and parts catalogues from clutch manufacturers (e.g., Exedy/Daikin, NSK), which list a dedicated clutch release/thrust bearing for 1987 Pajero manual variants. Additionally, the engine itself uses crankshaft thrust bearings (integral with a main bearing) to control end float, documented in the engine overhaul section of the factory manual. Note: automatic-transmission Pajeros don’t have a clutch thrust/release bearing, though they still have engine crankshaft thrust bearings.

This thrust bearing (release bearing) lets the clutch disengage smoothly when the pedal’s pressed, sliding against the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring. On a 1987 Pajero with a manual ‘box, it’s a small part doing a big job—quiet, steady, and hard-working every time the left foot goes down. Because it’s a sealed, pre-lubed unit, there’s no regular greasing—maintenance is all about inspection and smart replacement when access is open.

Best practice for servicing:

• Replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is out. Labour’s the big cost, so fitting a new bearing with a new clutch kit (disc and cover) is the smart, cost-effective move.
• Check the clutch fork, pivot ball, and slave cylinder pushrod for wear, replace if sloppy. A worn fork or dry pivot can make a new bearing noisy or short-lived.
• Lightly grease the gearbox input shaft splines and the fork pivot with high-temp moly grease. Don’t grease the bearing face or pressure plate fingers.
• Inspect the spigot/pilot bearing in the crank, replace if rough. It supports the input shaft and helps prevent release chatter.
• Look over the flywheel for heat spotting or cracks. Resurface if required for clean engagement.
• Bleed the clutch hydraulics and check the master/slave cylinders for leaks to keep pedal feel crisp and prevent partial disengagement that can stress the bearing.

Signs the thrust bearing’s on the way out include a chirp, whirr, or growl with the pedal depressed that goes quiet when released, a rough, notchy pedal feel, and vibration during disengagement. On the Pajero, gearbox removal is the usual approach, follow the factory manual for alignment and torque specs. With quality parts and proper setup, a fresh thrust bearing should run quietly for years and plenty of kilometres.

Worth noting: the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing is a different component. It controls crank end float and is only addressed during engine rebuilds or if there’s specific end-float wear. It’s not part of routine clutch service.

Popular questions about the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero thrust bearing

How do you tell if the thrust (release) bearing is failing on a 1987 Pajero?
Usually by noise and feel. A squeal, chirp, or grinding sound that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and disappears when released points to the release bearing. You might also feel a rough, graunchy pedal or notice shudder on disengagement. Rule out hydraulic issues first (air in the system or a leaking slave), then inspect the fork, pivot, and bearing.

Do automatic 1987 Pajeros have a thrust bearing?
They don’t have a clutch release/thrust bearing because there’s no manual clutch—autos use a torque converter. However, the engine itself still uses crankshaft thrust bearings to control end float. That engine thrust bearing isn’t a routine service item and is only inspected during engine work.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced by itself or with the whole clutch?
It’s best done with the full clutch kit. Because removing the gearbox is the big job, most owners fit a new clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, and pilot bearing/spigot bearing together. It saves labour, ensures matched components, and helps deliver a light, quiet pedal feel for the long haul.