Starter Clutch 49 Pan

[Johnno]

Dissmantled my 4 speed tank shift trans & came across a hole in the starter clutch gear with a pin sticking out (actually it was stuck down) with a small compression spring under it. At first thought someone had pinned the gear to mainshaft but it turned out to be a blind hole. I can't find any reference to it in any parts or repair manuals so what is its purpose? Only thing I can come up with is it locates in machined section of thrust bearing? Is it original? What is it's purpose & if it is a necessary item how did my clutch & kickstart work fine with it jammed? I have attached a couple of photos & look foward to hearing from someone with more knowledge than me. Thanks in advance. Aussie Johnno

[Robert Luland]

It is usually a ball bearing with the spring. It indexes into the notch in the inside of the throw out bearing. The hole around the bearing is swedged to keep the ball from falling out. You can use it the way it is, just make sure the ball and spring are in there when you pop on the throw out bearing. Bob L

[Kuda]

Robert's of course right. I've been through quite a few of those over the years, I've never seen the ball still in there after 6 months to a year. The ball is just supposed to stop the inner bearing from free-spinning and adding addtional wear. As long as the lube is high enough in the trans, they tend not to make a big difference...

-Kuda
'49 panchop

[Johnno]

Thanks for the replies I kinda guessed it wasn't critical. Cheers Aussie Johnno