Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Centre bearing

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero centre-bearing: what it does, and when to service it

Technical sources confirm a centre-bearing is fitted to most 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero long‑wheelbase (LWB) models. The Mitsubishi Motors Pajero NM/NP (2000–2006) Workshop Manual propeller shaft section, along with the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for NM chassis, show a two‑piece rear propeller (tail) shaft with a centre support bearing on LWB vehicles. Short‑wheelbase (SWB) variants generally run a single‑piece rear shaft and typically do not use a centre-bearing.

On LWB 2001 Pajero models, the centre-bearing (also called a carrier bearing) supports the two‑piece tailshaft between the transmission/transfer case and the rear differential. It steadies the shaft, keeps driveline angles in check, and cuts vibration so the cabin stays smooth at highway speeds. The bearing sits in a rubber isolator mounted to the body, absorbing harshness from corrugations and off‑road knocks—perfect for Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

As kilometres rack up, the rubber support can crack or collapse and the bearing itself can wear. Typical tell‑tales are a shudder on take‑off, a low rumble or droning between about 20–60 km/h under load, and a clunk on throttle changes. Under the vehicle, owners might spot split rubber, loose mounting, or play when the shaft is moved by hand.

Best practice is to inspect the centre-bearing at regular services—especially if the Pajero tows, sees beach work, or spends time in mud and water. A quick check includes looking for perished rubber, ensuring the mount is tight, and feeling for roughness or free play. Many workshops recommend replacing the centre-bearing at the same time as tired universal joints to keep the shaft phased and happy. When the bearing is changed, marking the tailshaft orientation before removal helps preserve balance, and careful re‑alignment reduces the chance of post‑repair vibration. After any driveline work, a short test drive in 2H and 4H, then a bolt re‑check after 100 km, is smart practice.

• Service tip: inspect every service or 20,000 km, heavy off‑road or towing use may shorten life.
• Common symptoms: take‑off shudder, mid‑speed drone, visible rubber failure, and noticeable shaft play.
• Replacement advice: use quality parts, keep the shaft phased, and check mounts and U‑joints together.

FAQs

How can someone tell if the centre-bearing on a 2001 Pajero is failing?
Most notice a vibration or shudder on take‑off, a rumbling sound that changes with vehicle speed, or a clunk on gear changes. A visual check often shows cracked or collapsed rubber around the bearing, and there may be obvious play when the tailshaft is pushed up and down.

Do short‑wheelbase 2001 Pajeros have a centre-bearing?
Generally, no. SWB models typically use a single‑piece rear propeller shaft and don’t require a centre support. The LWB models use a two‑piece shaft and therefore use a centre-bearing mounted to the body.

Is a worn centre-bearing the same issue as a bad universal joint?
No. Both can cause vibration, but the centre-bearing supports the shaft mid‑length, while the U‑joints allow the shaft to articulate. Many workshops inspect and often replace them together if wear is present, as they affect each other’s longevity.