Parts for your 2000 Holden Commodore-Thrust bearing

2000 Holden Commodore thrust-bearing: what’s fitted and what to service

Short answer: a thrust-bearing (commonly called a clutch release or throwout bearing) is fitted on 2000 Holden Commodore models with a manual gearbox. It isn’t used on automatic variants because the 4L60-E automatic relies on a torque converter rather than a manual clutch. Engine crankshaft thrust bearings do exist inside all engines, but they’re internal main-bearing shells and not a routine service item.

Technical sources referenced to reach this conclusion include: Holden VT/VX Series Workshop Manual (Clutch—Manual Transmission), which details the release/thrust bearing arrangement for the Getrag 5‑speed (V6) and Tremec T56 6‑speed (V8), GM Hydra‑Matic 4L60‑E Service Manual, which specifies a torque converter with no clutch release bearing, Gregory’s/Haynes Holden Commodore VT–VX manuals, and ACL/engine bearing catalogues noting crankshaft thrust bearings as internal components.

For a manual 2000 Commodore, the thrust-bearing’s job is simple but critical: it rides on the gearbox input shaft collar and, when the driver presses the clutch pedal, it pushes on the pressure plate fingers to disengage the clutch. That lets gears slot in smoothly without graunching. When healthy, it runs quietly and with a smooth, light pedal feel. When it’s on the way out, it’ll typically chirp, squeal or grind with the clutch pedal depressed, and the noise often changes as the pedal is feathered.

Servicing advice is straightforward: the thrust-bearing isn’t a periodic maintenance part, it’s replaced on condition—ideally whenever the clutch is out. Any time the gearbox is removed (for a clutch, rear main seal, or input shaft work), it makes sense to fit a new bearing along with the pressure plate and friction disc. Reputable clutch kits for VT/VX manuals generally include a new release bearing and pilot bush/bearing. While you’re in there, inspect the clutch fork, pivot ball, guide tube, and the hydraulic slave cylinder for wear or leaks. A tiny smear of high‑temp moly grease on the fork pivot and bearing contact faces is good practice—never contaminate the friction surfaces.

Common symptoms that nudge replacement include: noise with the pedal pressed, a rough or notchy feel through the pedal, or difficulty selecting gears that improves when the pedal is pumped (which can also hint at a hydraulic issue). With the vehicle safely supported, listen at idle, then press the pedal, if the noise appears or disappears with pedal movement, the release bearing is a prime suspect. Replacement requires gearbox removal, so bundling it with a clutch change saves labour and keeps the Commodore shifting sweetly for many more kilometres.

• Technical sources: Holden VT/VX Series Workshop Manual (Clutch—Manual Transmission, Engine—Bottom End), GM Hydra‑Matic 4L60‑E Service Manual, Gregory’s/Haynes Commodore VT–VX 1997–2002, Exedy clutch kit documentation for VT/VX, ACL engine bearing catalogues for Ecotec V6 and Gen III V8.

Popular questions

Does a 2000 Holden Commodore have a thrust-bearing?
Yes—if it’s a manual. The Getrag 5‑speed (V6) and Tremec T56 6‑speed (V8) use a clutch release/thrust bearing. Automatic models with the 4L60‑E don’t have one because they use a torque converter, not a manual clutch.

When should the thrust-bearing be replaced?
It’s typically replaced whenever the clutch is out, or sooner if it’s noisy with the pedal depressed or the pedal feel is rough. Because gearbox removal is required, it’s smart to renew it as part of a complete clutch kit to save on labour and avoid repeat work.

What noise points to a failing thrust-bearing?
A chirp, squeal, or grinding sound that appears with the clutch pedal pressed and fades when it’s released is classic release bearing noise. If the sound changes as the pedal is feathered, the bearing is likely worn, though it’s wise to also check the slave cylinder, pilot bearing, and pressure plate fingers.