Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero-Thrust bearing

2004 Mitsubishi Pajero Thrust Bearing

Based on the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Workshop Manual for NM/NP series (2000–2006), the 5‑speed manual Pajero is fitted with a clutch release bearing (commonly called a thrust bearing). The same factory documentation, along with the 4M41 engine manual, lists crankshaft thrust bearings controlling end float inside the engine. Industry catalogues such as Exedy’s clutch kit listings and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue also show a release (thrust) bearing supplied for manual models. So yes—thrust bearings are used on the 2004 Pajero. Automatic models don’t have a clutch release bearing, though they still rely on internal thrust bearings in the engine and transmission that aren’t routine service items.

On a manual 2004 Pajero, the thrust bearing sits on the gearbox input sleeve and presses the clutch diaphragm spring when the pedal’s pushed. Its job is to convert the pedal’s movement into smooth, axial load on the pressure plate so gears can be selected without graunching. Around town or towing, it works hard, off‑road, mud and water can make life tougher again.

When servicing a Pajero clutch, it’s smart practice to replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch disc and cover are changed. The bearing is a sealed unit—don’t wash it out or pack it with grease. Instead, lightly lubricate only the contact points: the fork ears to bearing carrier, and the carrier sliding surface on the input sleeve, using a small amount of high‑temp moly grease as per the workshop manual. Keep grease well away from the friction surfaces.

Tell‑tales of a crook thrust bearing include a whirring, chirp, or squeal with the clutch pedal depressed that quietens when the pedal’s released, a notchy pedal feel, or engagement that’s inconsistent when hot. If those symptoms show up, plan on gearbox removal to inspect the bearing, clutch cover and disc, pilot bearing/bush, fork, pivot ball, clip, and the input sleeve for scoring. Replace worn components as a set to avoid repeat labour. After refit, bleed the hydraulic system and check pedal height and free play to the spec in the NM/NP workshop manual.

For automatic Pajeros, there’s no clutch thrust bearing to service. Engine crankshaft thrust bearings are internal, they’re checked by measuring end float during engine work and aren’t touched during routine maintenance.

• Replace the thrust bearing with every clutch job.
• Use light, correct grease only on fork and carrier contact points.
• Inspect fork, pivot, pilot bearing, and input sleeve while the box is out.

FAQs

How do you tell if the thrust bearing is failing on a 2004 Pajero?

Listen for a whirring, chirp, or rumble with the clutch pedal depressed that disappears when you lift off. A rough pedal feel or inconsistent disengagement are other clues. If noise changes with pedal position rather than vehicle speed, the thrust bearing is a prime suspect.

Do automatic 2004 Pajeros have a thrust bearing to service?

No clutch thrust bearing on autos. They use a torque converter, and any thrust bearings inside the transmission or engine are internal and not serviced during regular maintenance. They’re only addressed during overhaul work if measurements are out of spec.

Should the Pajero thrust bearing be greased?

The bearing itself is sealed and not service‑greasable. Apply only a small amount of high‑temp moly grease to the fork contact points and the carrier’s sliding surface. Avoid getting any lubricant on the clutch disc, pressure plate or flywheel.