Parts for your 2000 Ford Falcon-Thrust bearing

2000 Ford Falcon thrust-bearing: what it is, whether it’s fitted, and how to look after it

Based on Ford Falcon AU Series II workshop literature and common parts catalogues from Exedy and ClutchPro, the 2000 Ford Falcon fitted with a manual gearbox (T5 5‑speed) uses a clutch release bearing, widely called a thrust-bearing in Australia and New Zealand. It sits on the gearbox input shaft sleeve and presses the clutch diaphragm when the pedal’s pushed. Automatic Falcons (BTR 4‑speed) don’t use a clutch thrust-bearing, they use a torque converter instead. Separately, all AU engines have crankshaft thrust control within the main bearings, but that’s a different component to the clutch thrust-bearing most owners ask about.

On a manual 2000 Falcon, the thrust-bearing’s job is simple: convert the pedal’s motion into smooth, low‑friction contact with the clutch cover so gears select cleanly and quietly. When it’s worn, drivers can cop squealing or growling with the pedal down, a rough pedal feel, or notchier engagement. Because the bearing lives inside the bellhousing, it’s not a routine lube-and-go item—replacement is the fix.

Best practice is to replace the thrust-bearing whenever the clutch is out. Most reputable clutch kits for AU manuals include a new bearing, pressure plate, disc, and a spigot/pilot bearing. While the box is out, a tech should also check the release fork and pivot, input shaft guide tube, rear main seal, and (where applicable) the clutch cable, quadrant and firewall for wear or cracking.

• Typical lifespan: often aligned with clutch life—anywhere from 150,000 to 250,000 km, depending on use.
• Symptoms to watch: noise with the pedal depressed, vibration through the pedal, dragging/clutch not fully disengaging.
• Fitment tips: apply a light smear of high‑temp moly grease on the guide tube and fork contact points only—keep grease off the bearing face and friction surfaces.
• Time and tools: gearbox-out job, expect around half a day of labour with basic transmission support gear and a clutch alignment tool.

If the Falcon is an automatic, chasing a “thrust-bearing noise” will send techs down the wrong road. Look instead at the torque converter, flexplate, front pump or accessory drive. For engines showing axial movement or rumble under clutch/convertor load, a mechanic will measure crankshaft end float to assess the engine’s main/thrust bearings—again, separate to the clutch thrust-bearing.

Popular questions about 2000 Ford Falcon thrust-bearing

Does a 2000 Falcon auto have a thrust-bearing?
Automatic AU Falcons don’t use a clutch thrust-bearing at all. They run a torque converter, so any driveline noise when selecting gears in an auto points to converter, pump, flexplate or mounts rather than a clutch release bearing.

What are the signs my Falcon’s thrust-bearing is failing?
Typical giveaways are a squeal, chirp or growl when the clutch pedal is pressed, plus a rough or vibrating pedal feel. If the clutch drags or gears baulk, the bearing and/or pressure plate may be binding and the full clutch kit should be inspected.

Should the thrust-bearing be replaced on its own?
It can be, but it’s usually smarter value to fit a complete clutch kit while the gearbox is out. You’ll save on duplicated labour and reset the whole clutch system—disc, cover, thrust-bearing and pilot/spigot bearing—in one go.