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MG TD TF 1500 - installing new clutch bearing

While waiting for my engine to come back from the machine shop I've busied myself with other projects - water pump, rodding the radiator etc etc. Finally got around yesterday to priming and painting the engine bay, which leaves me with one task before the engine comes back: installing a new throw-out clutch bearing. There was nothing wrong with the clutch, but the bearing didn't have a lot of carbon left on the face before it hit metal, so it was a good time while the engine was out to do this job!
Ordered the bearing from Moss, and the metal is a bit thicker and heavier all around than the original bearing. The two big pins were a tighter fit, probably just because of paint, so I used wire wool to get them shiny and then fit the bearing on.
The only issue I have is that the original bearing pivoted very easily, and this bearing is much tighter. You can pivot it, but not very easily, it requires some force.
Does this matter at all? Should I lubricate/grease the pins or file them down just a tad to make for an easy fit? Or will it all just wear in nicely?
Thanks in advance for the advice!
I didn't install a roller bearing, just the standard carbon unit.
Geoffrey M Baker

I think I would leave the bearing as is. I assume the force of the clutch and pedal lever will make a nice fit without any lube.
Jim Merz

Hmm. Well, I suppose I'd apply a little molybdenum disulphide or graphite-based lubricant to the inside of the "U" where the ears on the bearing sit - this will make bedding in easier, less noisy and will prevent the bearing taking a 'set' and being cocked on retraction.
Kevin McLemore

The other thing I noticed is that the holes in the ears are a tad bigger than the original holes, that the spring clips sit into, which makes me wonder if this will create play as the bearing moves back and forth.
Geoffrey M Baker

I don't see any problem with it being a little tight. There is a lot of force on the bearing when you press the clutch pedal. More than enough to overcome a bit of friction. If it makes you feel better, use a bit of grease and/or lightly sand the surfaces.
Steve Simmons

I'm not going to worry about it. I was just worried that perhaps my new bearing was poorly manufactured. I'm thinking that the pedal force should easily overcome the issue, and that it will wear in quickly.
Thanks for the suggestions!
Geoffrey M Baker

This thread was discussed between 28/05/2015 and 31/05/2015

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