Parts for your 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero-Thrust bearing

2000 Mitsubishi Pajero thrust bearing — what it does and how to look after it

Based on the Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP, 1999–2006) Workshop Manual – Clutch, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 2000 Pajero with a manual gearbox is fitted with a clutch release bearing, commonly called a thrust bearing. These factory sources also show that automatic models don’t have an external clutch thrust bearing because they use a torque converter, any internal thrust bearings in the auto transmission aren’t routine service items.

On a manual 2000 Pajero, the thrust bearing sits between the clutch fork and the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring. When the driver presses the pedal, the bearing pushes on the spring while spinning freely, so the clutch can disengage smoothly without chewing out contact surfaces. It’s a small bit of kit that makes a big difference to pedal feel, shift quality, and noise.

There isn’t a set replacement interval, because wear depends on driving style and load. Many Pajero owners replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is out — typically somewhere around 150,000–250,000 kilometres, sooner if the vehicle tows, crawls off-road, or spends a lot of time in stop‑start traffic. Telltales of a tired bearing include a whirr, chirp, or grinding that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed, a notchy or rough pedal, or clutch engagement that feels a bit grabby.

Best practice during clutch service:

• Always replace the thrust bearing with the clutch kit, mixing old and new parts can shorten clutch life.
• Lightly lubricate the bearing carrier, input shaft splines, clutch fork pivot, and guide tube with a high‑temp moly grease. Keep grease well away from the friction surfaces.
• Inspect the fork for cracks or worn tips, check the pressure plate fingers for uneven wear, and assess the spigot/pilot bearing and rear main seal while the box is out.
• Bleed the clutch hydraulics and confirm free play and release points are to spec after refit.

To help the bearing last, avoid riding the clutch, slip it only as much as needed when taking off, and pop the lever into neutral at long lights. After deep water crossings, keep an ear out, water can wash away grease and accelerate wear. For automatic Pajeros, there’s no external thrust bearing to service, focus instead on scheduled transmission fluid changes and cooling system health.

Does a 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero have a thrust bearing?

Yes, on manual models it’s the clutch release (thrust) bearing that lets the clutch disengage smoothly. Automatic versions don’t use an external clutch thrust bearing, they rely on a torque converter, and any internal transmission thrust components aren’t routine service items.

What are the signs the thrust bearing is failing?

Listen for a whirr, squeal, or rumble that changes when you press the pedal. A rough pedal, vibration through the pedal, or clutch engagement that feels grabby can also point to a worn bearing. If the noise disappears when the pedal is released, the thrust bearing is a prime suspect.

When should it be replaced on a Pajero?

There’s no fixed schedule, but it’s smart to replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is changed because gearbox removal is the big chunk of labour. Many owners see long life if driven sensibly, though towing, off‑road work, and city commuting can bring the timeline forward.