Parts for your 1997 Nissan Pulsar-Thrust bearing

1997 Nissan Pulsar Thrust Bearing — What It Does and When to Replace

For the 1997 Nissan Pulsar (N15 series), a thrust bearing is indeed used on manual-transmission models — it’s the clutch release (thrust) bearing that presses on the pressure plate when the pedal’s pushed. This is documented in the Nissan Pulsar N15 Factory Service Manual (CL/MT sections for clutch and manual transaxle), with the RS5F31A/RS5F32A gearboxes. The engine also uses a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into a main bearing (Engine Mechanical EM section) to control crank end float. Automatic Pulsar variants don’t have a clutch thrust bearing, but they still have engine crank thrust bearings. Nissan parts catalogues (FAST) list the release/thrust bearing as a service part for N15 manual models.

On a manual 1997 Pulsar, the clutch thrust bearing lets the clutch disengage smoothly with minimal friction and noise. It only works when the pedal is depressed, riding on the clutch diaphragm spring via the release fork. When worn, it can squeal, grind, or chirp when the pedal is pressed, and may cause a notchy pedal feel.

As a wear item, the thrust bearing is typically replaced whenever the clutch is done. There’s no routine maintenance to grease it in situ, it’s a sealed or service-lubed component that’s replaced, not serviced, once noisy or rough. Best practice is to fit a complete clutch kit (pressure plate, disc, release/thrust bearing, and aligning tool), and inspect the guide tube, fork pivot, and clips at the same time. Depending on variant, the Pulsar may be cable or hydraulic — adjust or bleed as required to avoid pedal free play or drag.

• Common symptoms: noise with pedal depressed, rough or pulsing pedal, difficulty selecting gears at a standstill.
• Recommended while-you’re-there items: input shaft seal, guide tube condition, fork and pivot ball wear, rear main seal, flywheel resurface if glazed or heat-spotted.
• Fitment tips: apply a light smear of high-temp grease on the bearing collar/guide tube and fork contact points only (per FSM), never on the friction surfaces. Do not preload the bearing, set correct pedal free play. Avoid resting a foot on the clutch to extend life.

Note on engine thrust bearings: these live inside the engine and control crank end float — not part of routine clutch service. They’re addressed during engine rebuilds or if there’s confirmed excessive end play (e.g., clutch engagement changing dramatically with pedal load), which the EM section of the manual covers.

Popular questions about 1997 Nissan Pulsar thrust bearings

Does an automatic 1997 Pulsar have a thrust bearing?
It doesn’t have a clutch release (thrust) bearing because there’s no manual clutch. However, the engine still uses crankshaft thrust bearings inside the block. Those aren’t routine service items and are only addressed if there’s an internal engine issue.

What noises point to a failing thrust bearing on a manual Pulsar?
Noise when the pedal is pressed — squeal, chirp, or grinding — that quietens when the pedal’s released usually points to the clutch thrust bearing. If it’s noisy with the pedal up, look instead at the gearbox input shaft bearing or other rotating components.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced on its own?
It’s best replaced with the full clutch kit. Labour to remove the gearbox is the same, and mixing new and old parts can shorten clutch life. A kit helps ensure smooth, quiet operation for the next 80–120,000 kilometres, depending on driving style.