Parts for your 2002 Honda Accord-Thrust bearing

2002 Honda Accord Thrust-Bearing

From Honda’s 1998–2002 Accord Workshop/Service Manual (Helm) and OEM parts catalogues, the 2002 Accord (F23A 2.3L inline‑four and J30A 3.0L V6) uses a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the main bearing set, and manual-transmission models also run a clutch release (thrust) bearing. So a thrust-bearing is absolutely relevant and fitted to this model.

On a 2002 Honda Accord, the thrust-bearing’s main job in the engine is to control crankshaft end float. It sits as flanged faces on a main bearing, keeping the crank from walking forwards and backwards when the clutch is pressed (manuals), when the auto’s torque converter loads the crank, and under accessory belt thrust. By holding axial movement in check, it protects the oil pump gears, timing components, and the crank’s journals from abnormal wear. Manual models also have a clutch release (thrust) bearing that lets the pressure plate be disengaged smoothly without chewing out the diaphragm spring fingers.

There’s no routine service interval just for the engine’s thrust-bearing, but the Factory Service Manual specifies checking crankshaft end play during engine work. If the end float is out of spec, the bearing faces are worn or there’s crank thrust surface damage. Replacement involves dropping the sump, removing the relevant main cap, fitting the correct-grade bearing shells with assembly lube, torquing caps to spec, and rechecking end float with a dial indicator. If the crank’s thrust face is scored, machining or replacement may be needed.

For the clutch release bearing, best practice is to replace it whenever the clutch is done. It’s a gearbox-out job, so it makes sense to fit a new bearing, pressure plate, disc, and pilot/guide bearing as a set. Lightly grease the release fork pivot and input splines (moly grease, sparingly), inspect the fork and guide tube for wear, and bleed the hydraulics. Noisy release bearings often chirp, whirr, or rumble when the pedal is pressed, engine thrust wear can show as a change in idle or a knock when the clutch is dipped. Good oil quality and correct belt alignment help the engine thrust-bearing live a long life, and avoiding clutch riding keeps the release bearing happy.

• Common clues: clutch-pedal‑dependent noises, difficult shifting (manual), visible crank pulley in‑out movement, or out‑of‑spec end float.
• Use OEM-quality bearings and follow the Honda torque/measurement specs from the Workshop Manual.

Does a 2002 Honda Accord have a thrust bearing?

Yes. The engine uses a thrust-bearing integrated into the main bearing set to control crank end float. Manual models also have a clutch release (thrust) bearing. This is documented in Honda’s 1998–2002 Accord Workshop/Service Manual under Engine Mechanical (crankshaft end play) and Clutch (release bearing) sections.

What are the signs of a worn thrust-bearing on an Accord?

Engine thrust wear can show up as excessive crankshaft end float, a change in idle or a dull knock when the clutch is pressed, and sometimes accessory belt misalignment. A failing clutch release bearing typically chirps, whirrs, or rumbles when the pedal is depressed and may cause notchy shifting. Proper diagnosis includes measuring crank end play with a dial indicator and listening for pedal‑dependent noises.

Should the clutch release (thrust) bearing be replaced with the clutch?

Definitely. It’s a gearbox-out job, so it’s smart to replace the release bearing, clutch disc, pressure plate, and pilot/guide bearing together. This avoids repeat labour, ensures smooth engagement, and aligns with Honda service practice on clutch overhauls.