Toyota 31204-20100 Fork Sub-Assy, Clutch Release

The procedure for removal applies to 2009 and earlier models only, as 2010 and later models have the clutch release bearing and release cylinder as a single assembly that cannot be replaced separately. Begin by disconnecting the negative cable from the battery. Next, remove the transaxle. Reach behind the clutch fork to disengage it from the ballstud by pulling on the retention spring, then remove the fork and bearing. For inspection, hold the bearing by the outer race and rotate the inner race while applying pressure; it should turn smoothly. If it does not, replace the bearing/hub assembly. Wipe the bearing with a clean rag and inspect for damage, wear, and cracks, avoiding immersion in solvent as it is sealed for life. Also, check the clutch fork for any cracks and bends. For installation, fill the inner groove of the release bearing with high-temperature grease and apply a light coat of the same grease to the transaxle input shaft splines and the sleeve of the transaxle front bearing retainer. Lubricate the clutch fork ball socket, fork ends, and release cylinder pushrod socket with high-temperature grease. Attach the release bearing to the clutch fork, then slide the release bearing onto the transaxle input shaft front bearing retainer while passing the end of the clutch fork through the opening in the clutch housing. Push the clutch fork onto the ball stud until it is firmly seated, and apply a light coat of high-temperature grease to the face of the release bearing where it contacts the pressure plate diaphragm fingers. The remainder of the installation follows the reverse order of removal.

To remove the component, first disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then remove the transaxle. Next, detach the clutch fork from the ball stud and take off the bearing from the fork by pulling on the retention spring to disengage it. For inspection, hold the bearing by the outer race and rotate the inner race while applying pressure; it should turn smoothly, and if it doesn't or is noisy, replace the bearing/hub assembly. Wipe the bearing with a clean rag to check for damage, wear, and cracks, avoiding immersion in solvent as it is sealed for life. Also, inspect the fork for any cracks or bends. During installation, fill the inner groove of the release bearing with high-temperature grease and apply a light coat of the same grease to the transaxle input shaft splines and the front bearing retainer. Lubricate the fork ball socket, fork ends, and release cylinder pushrod socket with high-temperature grease, then attach the release bearing to the fork. Slide the release bearing onto the transaxle input shaft front bearing retainer while passing the end of the fork through the opening in the clutch housing, and push the clutch fork onto the ball stud until it is firmly seated. Finally, apply a light coat of high-temperature grease to the face of the release bearing where it contacts the pressure plate diaphragm fingers, and complete the installation by reversing the removal procedure.

To remove the clutch release bearing and perform an inspection, begin by disconnecting the negative cable from the battery and removing the transaxle. Then, detach the clutch fork from the ball stud and remove the bearing from the fork. During the inspection, hold the bearing and rotate the inner race while applying pressure to check for smooth operation and any noise. If the bearing is not functioning properly or shows signs of damage, wear, or cracks, it should be replaced with a new bearing/hub assembly. Avoid immersing the bearing in solvent as it is sealed for life and doing so can damage it. Additionally, inspect the clutch fork for cracks and bends. For installation, fill the inner groove of the release bearing with high-temperature grease. Apply a light coat of the same grease to the transaxle input shaft splines and the front bearing retainer. Lubricate the clutch fork ball socket, fork ends, and release cylinder pushrod socket with high-temperature grease. Attach the release bearing to the clutch fork and slide it onto the transaxle input shaft front bearing retainer, passing the end of the clutch fork through the opening in the clutch housing. Ensure the clutch fork is firmly seated on the ball stud. Apply a light coat of high-temperature grease to the face of the release bearing where it contacts the pressure plate diaphragm fingers. The remaining steps of the installation are the reverse of the removal procedure.