Clutch/pilot bearing life question

[jcwhidby]

I have a question on normal lifespan of clutches in Rangers. My truck is a 1997 2.3L regular cab. I replaced the clutch at 215k and again at 375k, in both instances the pilot bearing failed but the clutch and throwout bearing were still in good shape. Is it normal for pilot bearings to fail prior to the clutch wearing out? Is there anything I can do to improve the life of the pilot bearing?

 

[broncc]

Pilot bearings should last the life of the clutch. If you're wearing them out quickly, you're spending too much time in gear with your foot on the clutch. Also look into if the input bearing on the transmission is tight and if your engine main bearings are worn and the crank is sitting low in its bore.

 

[RobbieD]

Another thing to check, when the trans is out, is that the snout on the input shaft is nice and smooth, and clean. The pilot bearing rollers ride this snout, so you don't want any burrs or dings. I've used a Dremel tool with a polishing disc and rouge before, to polish the snout.

 

[Terrys87]

It sounds to me you are getting really good life out of each one. 150k miles not bad in my opion