Parts for your 2008 Ford Falcon-Thrust bearing

2008 Ford Falcon thrust-bearing: what it is, and when to replace it

Based on the Ford FG Falcon Workshop Manual (2008) and Tremec TR‑6060 service literature, the 2008 Ford Falcon uses a thrust-bearing in two places: the manual transmission’s clutch release assembly (commonly called the clutch thrust-bearing in Australia/NZ), and the engine’s crankshaft thrust washers that control end float. The clutch thrust-bearing applies to manual Falcons only, automatic models don’t use a clutch thrust-bearing, though all engines still have crankshaft thrust washers which aren’t routine service items. This page focuses on the clutch thrust-bearing used on manual 2008 Falcons.

On manual variants (XR6, XR6 Turbo, XR8 and others), the thrust-bearing sits in the release system to let the pressure plate disengage smoothly when the pedal’s pressed. On six‑speed manuals (Tremec TR‑6060), it’s integrated into a concentric slave cylinder (CSC) inside the bellhousing. Earlier or lower‑spec manuals may use a conventional bearing on a fork and guide tube. Either way, the bearing carries axial load while spinning against the pressure plate fingers, keeping clutch operation quiet and clean. These details are outlined in the Ford FG WSM clutch system procedures and Tremec’s service documentation.

There’s no set service interval for the thrust-bearing, it’s generally replaced whenever the clutch is done. Best practice during a clutch job is to fit a complete clutch kit that includes a new release/thrust-bearing (or CSC), pressure plate and friction disc. While it’s apart, technicians typically: inspect or replace the spigot/pilot bearing, check the fork, pivot and guide tube (where fitted), resurface or replace the flywheel as required, renew the rear main seal if there’s any weep, and bleed the hydraulic system with fresh DOT 4. Don’t lubricate a sealed thrust-bearing, and avoid any grease on friction surfaces.

• Typical symptoms of a tired thrust-bearing: chirping or whirring with pedal depressed, rough or notchy engagement, low clutch bite point, or fluid leaks from a CSC.
• Replacement requires gearbox removal. Allow extra time on CSC‑equipped cars and use the correct alignment/bleeding procedure noted in the Ford FG WSM.
• Automatic 2008 Falcons don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing, if a “thrust” part is being chased, it’s usually the engine’s thrust washers, which are only attended to during engine rebuilds.

Technical sources: Ford FG Falcon Workshop Manual (2008, clutch and engine sections) and Tremec TR‑6060 Service Manual confirm the presence and service approach for the thrust/release bearing and engine thrust washers.

Popular questions about 2008 Ford Falcon thrust-bearings

Does a 2008 Ford Falcon have a thrust-bearing?
Yes. Manual-transmission cars use a clutch release (thrust) bearing, and all engines use crankshaft thrust washers to control end float. Automatics don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing. This is consistent with the Ford FG Workshop Manual and Tremec TR‑6060 documentation.

When should the thrust-bearing be replaced on a 2008 Falcon?
It’s typically replaced whenever the clutch is replaced, or sooner if there’s noise with the pedal depressed, heavy pedal feel, poor disengagement, or fluid leakage from a concentric slave cylinder. There’s no routine interval—condition and kilometres driven decide it.

Can a thrust-bearing be lubricated to stop noise?
No. The clutch thrust-bearing is sealed and not serviceable. Spraying lubricants can contaminate the friction material and make things worse. The proper fix is inspection and replacement, along with checking the fork, pivot, guide tube, and spigot/pilot bearing.