Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Thrust bearing

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero thrust-bearing: what it is, where it fits, and how to look after it

Based on technical references, a thrust-bearing is relevant to the 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero when it’s a manual transmission model. Mitsubishi’s factory Workshop Manual (Group 21 – Clutch) describes the clutch release (thrust) bearing as part of the clutch release mechanism, and the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a release bearing for NM/NP-series Pajero manuals. Aftermarket catalogues such as Exedy’s also supply clutch kits for 2002 Pajero manuals that include a release (thrust) bearing. Automatic models don’t use a clutch release bearing, though all engines do contain crankshaft thrust faces within the main bearings, which aren’t serviced like the clutch item.

For a manual 2002 Pajero, the thrust-bearing (often called the release or throw-out bearing) sits between the clutch fork and the pressure plate diaphragm. Its job is simple but crucial: when the driver presses the clutch pedal, the bearing allows smooth, low-friction contact so the pressure plate can disengage the clutch without graunching or dragging. When it wears out, it can get noisy, feel rough through the pedal, and eventually compromise clutch operation.

Typical tell-tales include a whirring, chirping, or growling noise that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed, a notchy pedal feel, or difficulty selecting gears at a standstill. If those show up, it’s time to plan a clutch-out job. Because the gearbox has to come out to access the bearing, the smart money is to replace the full clutch kit (pressure plate, friction disc, release bearing—and the pilot/spigot bearing where applicable) in one hit.

• Always inspect the clutch fork, pivot/ball, guide tube and slave cylinder for wear or binding, replace or lubricate as specified in the Workshop Manual.
• Apply only the recommended high-temp grease sparingly to the bearing snout/guide and fork contact points—keep all lube away from the friction surfaces.
• Check the flywheel face, machine or replace if heat-spotted or cracked.
• Bleed the clutch hydraulics after reassembly and confirm free-play and pedal height to spec.

There’s no fixed replacement interval—most owners tackle the thrust-bearing when doing a clutch at around 150,000–250,000 km, depending on use (towing, off-road starts and heavy city traffic bring the schedule forward). Sticking with quality parts that meet OEM spec and following torque settings and procedures from the Mitsubishi Workshop Manual will keep the Pajero shifting sweetly for years.

FAQs

Does a 2002 Pajero with an automatic transmission have a thrust-bearing?
Automatic models don’t use a clutch release (thrust) bearing because there’s no manual clutch to disengage. They use a torque converter instead. The engine still has internal thrust faces within the main bearings, but these aren’t a routine service item.

How often should the thrust-bearing be replaced?
It isn’t a schedule-based item. It’s typically replaced during a clutch overhaul, which for many Pajeros lands somewhere between 150,000–250,000 km, earlier if it tows, sees lots of off-road work, or presents symptoms like noise when the pedal is pressed.

What noise points to a failing thrust-bearing?
A light whirr, chirp, or growl that appears or changes the moment the clutch pedal is pressed (and often disappears when released) is the classic sign. If it’s noisy with the pedal up and quiet when pressed, look instead at gearbox bearings or the pilot/spigot bearing.