can anyone explain to me what is a release bearing and what does it do?

cheers.

 

When you depress the clutch, its the release bearing that actually pushes the diaphram spring to free the pressure plate from the clutch plate and hence the flywheel. Because the whole flywheel/clutch plate/pressure plate is spinning, this device needs to be a ball bearing of some kind to allow a linear (push) movement, whilst at the same time spinning at engine speed. Does this make sense? You need a diagram or an actual assembly to really see what goes on.
As you can imagine they take a bit of stick in high speed gear changes! Should always be replaced when the clutch is re-newed. Have been known to squeal if the grease escapes or they become knackered.
Does this help?
Regards - JohnD

 

too technical for me, john. but thanks anyway.