Throw-out bearing carrier..

[1955CJ-5]

On the right is the carrier that was installed. On the left is a new repro carrier.





You can see that the ear where the return spring is hooked is in a different place, but the new spring is the same length as the old one...probably too short..

The old one looks like the pictures in the manual, and it fits tighter on the bearing retainer...

Any reason not to use it?

[F Bill]

I'd use the one that fits the best, the original.

[calvinhunt]

I agree with F Bill. When I was restoring my Jeep I ran into the same thing.  The new repro casting was grainy and looked like something I didn't want to install.  I didn't return it, I got more fulfillment in throwing it in the closest garbage can, where it belonged. I could see that the old one was worn in but not worn out.  Sadly, I've had it out twice since then (due to other reasons as posted last year) and in 6,000 miles it looks to be just the same.  No additional wear. 

[1955CJ-5]

So now that is settled! Thanks for the advice...

The old one goes back in...I ordered an NOS Aetna bearing from Brent Mullins.

Mine still had the Aetna Ball and Roller Bearing Company Made in USA bearing in it....very cool...and really it does not feel bad, but it will get replaced...

One more question....there is a groove around the inside bore of the carrier..is this meant for a small dab of grease when assembling?

[calvinhunt]

It has been a few years since I assembled my new throw-out bearing into its carrier so I don't remember what I did then, but I'm sure I felt the same as I do now and that is that I don't want the outer portion of the bearing spinning in its housing.� The purpose of the bearing is to allow the center to turn while the outer portion is stationary in the housing.� If anything, I'd install it with loctite, not grease.

[1955CJ-5]

The groove is in the carrier, inside, back by the ears. The hole above the one ear is a vent/drain hole.

The bearing itself is a very snug fit on the carrier...but a little Loctite couldn't hurt...

I've been thinking about it and I think the groove is there to collect anything that might leak out of the front transmission bearing retainer and then let it drain further back from the clutch plate...