Parts for your 2005 Holden Commodore-Thrust bearing

2005 Holden Commodore thrust-bearing — what it is, if you’ve got one, and how to look after it

Referencing the Holden VZ Series Workshop Manual (Clutch section), Tremec T56 service literature, and Aisin AY6 clutch and transmission service guides, the 2005 Holden Commodore does use a thrust-bearing (also called a clutch release bearing) on manual-transmission variants. Automatic models don’t have a serviceable clutch thrust-bearing because they use a torque converter. Separately, every engine (V6 Alloytec and V8) has internal crankshaft thrust bearings to control end-float, but these aren’t routine service items and are only addressed during engine repair or rebuild.

On a manual 2005 Commodore, the thrust-bearing sits at the heart of the clutch system. Its job is to smoothly transfer the force from the clutch pedal, via the hydraulic system and fork or concentric slave cylinder (CSC), onto the pressure plate’s release fingers. That lets the clutch disengage cleanly so gears slot in without graunching. Depending on the variant, the release bearing may be a traditional bearing working with a fork, or an integrated CSC style unit inside the bellhousing — both covered in the factory manuals noted above.

Because it spins at engine speed when loaded and lives in a hot, dusty bellhousing, the thrust-bearing is a wear item. There’s no set replacement interval, but it’s smart to replace it whenever the clutch is out. Most clutch kits for VZ Commodore manuals include a new release bearing (or CSC) for this reason. If the bearing gets noisy, you’ll typically hear a chirp, squeal, or rumble when the clutch pedal is depressed that quietens when you lift your foot.

• Common symptoms: noise with pedal depressed, notchy engagement, vibration through the pedal, or fluid weep from the bellhousing if a CSC is failing.
• Best practice during clutch work: fit a new thrust-bearing/CSC, inspect or machine the flywheel, replace the pilot/spigot bearing, and bleed the hydraulic system with the correct fluid.
• Don’t grease sealed bearings, keep contact faces clean, check alignment and torque fasteners to workshop specs.

If your Commodore is an auto, a clutch thrust-bearing doesn’t apply. Any “thrust” components in the auto trans are internal bearings and thrust washers, not serviced during routine maintenance.

FAQs

Does my 2005 Commodore have a thrust-bearing?
Yes if it’s a manual — the clutch release (thrust) bearing is part of the clutch assembly, per the Holden VZ Workshop Manual and the Tremec/Aisin service guides. Automatic models don’t use a serviceable clutch thrust-bearing.

What does a worn thrust-bearing sound like?
Usually a chirp, squeal, or grinding noise that appears when you press the clutch pedal and eases when you release it. If it’s an integrated CSC, you might also notice clutch drag or fluid leakage from the bellhousing.

Should the thrust-bearing be replaced on its own?
It can be, but it’s more cost-effective to replace it with the clutch kit while the gearbox is out. That way you’re not paying labour twice and you reduce the risk of mixing old and new wear parts.