CLUTCH RELEASE BEARING assy
Clutch Release Bearing (Throw-out Bearing)
For 8-1/2" clutch
Clutch release bearing for military jeeps and civilian variants fitted with 4-134 L-head or F-head engine. This bearing is mounted in the bell housing on the clutch carrier and ensures disengagement of the clutch when the pedal is depressed. An essential component of the clutch system that regularly shows wear due to constant friction during use.
|
Application Clutch system |
Engine type L-134 / F-134 |
|
Clutch size 8-1/2" |
OE reference 945255 |
Features
- Suitable for 4-134 L-head and F-head engines
- For 8-1/2" clutch system
- Works together with clutch carrier 644366
- Replaceable component during clutch overhaul
- Essential for smooth clutch operation
★ This clutch release bearing is compatible with both early L-head engines (1941-1953) and later F-head engines (1952-1971) with 4-134 displacement. Recommended to replace during every clutch overhaul to prevent future problems.
Application
Fits the vehicles listed in the product categories: Willys MB, Ford GPW, M201, CJ-3A, M38, CJ-3B. Suitable for vehicles with 8-1/2" clutch and 4-134 engine (both L-head and F-head variant). Note: this bearing does NOT fit vehicles with 9-1/4" clutch or 6-cylinder engines.
Installation notes
The bearing is mounted on the clutch carrier (part number 644366) which slides over the gearbox input shaft. For replacement, the gearbox/transfer case must be removed together. During overhaul: always replace the clutch disc, pressure plate as well and have the flywheel skimmed. Ensure correct adjustment of clutch free play (1 inch free pedal travel) after installation.
Compatibility
Note the difference between L-head (early MB/GPW/M201/CJ-2A) and F-head (late CJ-3A/CJ-3B/M38A1/CJ-5) engines — this bearing fits both variants. Do check whether your vehicle has an 8-1/2" or 9-1/4" clutch, this bearing is only for 8-1/2" system. Often sold as a set with clutch carrier and spring, but can also be replaced separately.
Historical context
The clutch release bearing was standard equipment on all WWII jeeps and post-war civilian models with 4-cylinder engine. The construction remained largely unchanged from 1941 to 1971, which explains the mutual interchangeability.
This description was generated automatically. Unsure about fitment? Contact us at info@willys.be.
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This part is intended for the restoration of historic military vehicles. Fitting, aligning, deburring or reworking is part of that work and is inherent to the nature of these goods. Dimensional variation also exists between original vehicles.
Installation requires technical knowledge of the vehicle. Unsure whether this part suits your version? Ask us before purchase at info@willys.be.
ALL_CATEGORIES : GROUP 02 - CLUTCH CJ3A, GROUP 02 - CLUTCH - M38, GROUP 02 - Clutch CJ3B
This part fits:
| Model | Years |
|---|---|
| Military jeeps | |
| Willys MB (early) | 1941, 1942 |
| Willys MB | 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945 |
| Hotchkiss M201 | 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966 |
| Willys M38 | 1950, 1951, 1952 |
| Willys M38A1 | 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971 |
| CJ series | |
| Jeep CJ-2A | 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949 |
| Jeep CJ-3A | 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953 |
📐 Diagrams & technical drawings
From the original Technical Manual CJ2A_PL_1949 — Parts List — only for Willys CJ-2A / CJ-3A (1949)
From the original Technical Manual TM 10-1513 — Maintenance Manual — only for Willys MB / Ford GPW (1942)









