Parts for your 2002 Toyota Crown-Thrust bearing

2002 Toyota Crown thrust bearing — what it does, and when to worry

On a 2002 Toyota Crown (S170 series — JZS171/JZS173/UZS171), a “thrust bearing” is relevant to the engine and the automatic transmission, but there is no clutch release/throw-out thrust bearing because these Crowns are typically paired with Aisin A340E/A341E automatics from factory. Toyota’s service literature for the 1JZ‑FSE/2JZ‑FSE engines shows a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated with the centre main bearing, used to control end float (Engine Mechanical section, Toyota Service Manual for JZS17#). The Aisin A340E/A341E transmission also uses internal thrust bearings/washers as part of its geartrain support (Aisin automatic transmission repair manual). Toyota’s EPC listings for JZS171 further identify a crankshaft thrust washer within the main bearing set. So, yes — a thrust bearing is fitted to the 2002 Crown, just not as a clutch release item.

The thrust bearing in a 2002 Toyota Crown’s engine keeps the crankshaft from shuffling back and forth under axial loads. Think of it as the side-stop for the crank — it takes up the push and pull from the torque converter, the accessory drive and even the transmission pump load when you drop it into Drive. By keeping crank end float within spec, it protects the main bearings, keeps the timing gear and rear main seal happier, and helps the engine run smooth and quiet.

As a maintenance item, it’s not something that’s replaced on schedule — it’s inspected when there’s a reason to be in the bottom end. Good oil, correct viscosity, and regular changes go a long way to preserving thrust surfaces. If chasing a driveline knock, a harsh clunk engaging Drive/Reverse, or odd fluctuating idle with the converter loaded, it’s worth checking crank end float against the spec in the Toyota manual. A quick diagnostic is to lever the crank pulley fore–aft and measure with a dial indicator, excessive movement means the sump will likely have to come off for a closer look.

Replacement happens during an engine bearing service: caps off, main bearings out, thrust faces inspected for scoring, then fit the correct-size main/thrust set with assembly lube, verify end float, and torque to spec from the Toyota EM section. If the crank’s thrust faces are badly worn, it may need polishing or grinding. For the A340E/A341E, any thrust bearing issues are handled during a full transmission overhaul — best left to a transmission specialist.

Quick pointers:

• Keep engine oil fresh and at the proper grade to protect thrust faces.
• Avoid prolonged high-stall loading (power-braking) that adds axial load to the crank.
• If the flexplate shows odd witness marks or the rear main seal weeps early, check end float.

References: Toyota Service Manual (Engine Mechanical, 1JZ‑FSE/2JZ‑FSE) for JZS17# Crown, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (JZS171, Crankshaft & Piston), Aisin A340E/A341E Automatic Transmission Repair Manual.

Popular questions

Does the 2002 Toyota Crown have a clutch thrust (release) bearing?
No. The 2002 Crown models are typically automatic (A340E/A341E), so there’s no clutch release/throw‑out bearing. The “thrust bearing” that applies is the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing, and internal thrust bearings inside the automatic transmission.

What are signs the crankshaft thrust bearing is worn on a 2002 Crown?
Look for a sharp clunk when shifting N–D–R, visible fore–aft movement at the crank pulley, or unusual flexplate noise. Excessive end float can also accelerate rear main seal leaks. Confirm with a dial gauge and compare to the spec in the Toyota manual.

Is the thrust bearing a routine service item?
No. It’s inspected and replaced during engine bottom‑end work or a transmission rebuild. Routine care is about prevention: correct oil, sensible driving, and investigating any end‑float symptoms early.