Parts for your 2020 Isuzu D-max-Thrust bearing

2020 Isuzu D‑MAX thrust-bearing: what it does and how to look after it

Based on the Isuzu D‑MAX (RG) 2020 Workshop Manual for the 4JJ3 engine (Engine Mechanical – Main Bearings/Crankshaft End Play), the Isuzu D‑MAX 2020 Repair Manual (Clutch – Release/Thrust Bearing for manual transmission), and the Isuzu Electronic Parts Catalogue (MY20 RG), a thrust-bearing is indeed used on the 2020 D‑MAX. Manual models run a clutch release bearing (commonly called a thrust or throwout bearing), and all engines use crankshaft thrust bearings integrated in the main bearing set to control axial endplay. Automatic models don’t have a clutch release bearing, but they still have the crankshaft thrust bearing.

For manual 2020 D‑MAX utes, the thrust-bearing’s job is to let the clutch pressure plate be released smoothly when the pedal is pressed. It takes the axial load from the clutch fork or concentric slave cylinder and spins quietly against the diaphragm spring. When this bearing wears, owners may notice a chirp or growl with the pedal depressed, a rough pedal feel, or trouble selecting gears at a standstill.

As a service item, the clutch thrust-bearing is typically replaced whenever a clutch kit is fitted. It’s not something that’s pulled out on its own unless there’s a distinct noise complaint. Good shops will also inspect the clutch fork or pivot, guide tube, and the slave cylinder operation, then apply the correct high‑temp grease sparingly to the contact points noted in the repair manual. Fresh brake/clutch fluid at the recommended interval (commonly 24 months) keeps the hydraulics happy and helps the bearing live an easier life.

The engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing is a different piece of kit. It controls crank end float so the crank doesn’t walk forward and back under clutch or converter loads. It’s not a routine service replacement, instead, it’s protected by clean oil, proper oil pressure, and sensible driving habits. If the engine is apart or there are signs of excessive endplay (crank pulley movement, odd clutch drag, or changes in starter ring engagement), technicians will measure and address it per the workshop specs.

• Typical clutch thrust-bearing symptoms: noise only when the pedal is pressed, notchiness in the pedal, or clutch engagement issues.
• Best practice: replace with the clutch, use the correct spec grease, and keep the hydraulic fluid fresh.
• Engine thrust-bearing care: stick to quality oil and service intervals, investigate any axial movement concerns promptly.

Popular questions

Do automatic 2020 D‑MAX models have a thrust-bearing?

They don’t have a clutch thrust (release) bearing because there’s no manual clutch. However, the engine still uses a crankshaft thrust bearing within the main bearings to control endplay. That’s standard diesel architecture and noted in the Isuzu workshop manual for the 4JJ3 engine.

What are the signs the clutch thrust-bearing is failing on a manual 2020 D‑MAX?

Most owners notice a chirp, squeal, or growl that appears only when the clutch pedal is pressed. There may also be a rough or pulsating pedal and occasional difficulty selecting first or reverse at a standstill. If the noise is present with the pedal released, the issue is more likely elsewhere (e.g., input shaft bearing), so a proper diagnosis helps.

When should the clutch thrust-bearing be replaced?

Best practice is to replace it whenever a clutch kit is installed. If there’s a confirmed bearing noise, it can be replaced on its own, but labour overlaps with clutch removal, so it’s usually wise to do the complete kit. Keep the clutch hydraulics bled with fresh fluid and avoid resting a foot on the pedal to maximise its life.