Parts for your 2008 Honda Stream-Thrust bearing

2008 Honda Stream thrust-bearing: what it does, and when to worry about it

Yes, a thrust-bearing is relevant to the 2008 Honda Stream. Honda’s R-series engines fitted to the RN6–RN9 Stream (R18A 1.8L and R20A 2.0L) use crankshaft thrust bearings (thrust washers integrated with a main bearing) to control end float. This is documented in Honda workshop material under Crankshaft End Play and Crankshaft Removal/Installation for R18A/R20A engines, which show the flanged thrust surfaces on a specific main bearing. Honda’s electronic parts catalogues for R18A/R20A also list a “thrust (crankshaft) washer/bearing” as a service part. On manual-transmission variants, there is also a clutch release bearing (often casually called a thrust bearing), while most NZ/AU imports are CVT or 5AT where that item doesn’t apply.

On the 2008 Honda Stream, the engine’s thrust-bearing keeps the crankshaft from shuffling back and forth under axial loads — things like clutch actuation on manual models, torque converter thrust in autos, and the belt drive’s side loads. Keeping end float in spec protects the crank, the bearings and the transmission interface, and helps the engine run smoothly without odd noises or shifting troubles.

It’s not a routine service item like oil or filters. Instead, it’s checked if there are symptoms or when the bottom end is open for other work. Typical signs that point a tech toward the thrust-bearing include:

• Noticeable crank pulley moving fore–aft, or a knock that changes when the clutch is pressed (manuals)
• Hard shifting or clutch engagement issues on manuals, harsh noises at idle that vanish off-load
• Excessive measured end float during an inspection

Good oil and sensible driving go a long way. Regular oil changes with the correct grade help protect all bearings. On manual cars, avoiding riding the clutch reduces axial load on the crank. If inspection is needed, a dial indicator is used to measure crank end play against Honda’s spec in the service manual. Replacement means sump off, bearing-cap removal and fitting the correct thrust-bearing halves, it’s precision work best left to an experienced technician who will also check journal clearances and cap torque.

If a manual Stream’s clutch is being replaced, the release bearing (separate to the engine thrust-bearing) should be renewed at the same time to avoid repeat labour. For autos/CVTs, focus remains on engine oil quality and addressing any abnormal noises early.

Popular questions

Does every 2008 Honda Stream have a thrust-bearing?
All Stream engines (R18A/R20A) use a crankshaft thrust-bearing in the block. Manual models also have a clutch release bearing that some people call a thrust bearing, but automatic and CVT models don’t use that clutch part.

What symptoms suggest the thrust-bearing is worn?
Look for a fore–aft twitch of the crank pulley, a knock that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed (manual), hard shifting, or abnormal end float measured with a dial indicator. Any of these warrant a professional inspection before damage snowballs.

Can the thrust-bearing be replaced without pulling the engine?
In many cases the sump and bearing caps can be removed in-vehicle, but access, measurement and cleanliness are critical. Most workshops prefer engine-out if other bottom-end work is planned, ensuring the correct bearing thickness is selected and all specs are met.