The purpose of the pilot bushing or bearing (Figure 35-6) is to support the outer end of the transmission’s input shaft. This shaft is splined to the clutch disc and transmits power from the engine (when the clutch is engaged) to the transmission. The transmission end of the input shaft is supported by a large bearing in the transmission case. Because the input shaft extends unsupported from the transmission, a pilot bushing is used to keep it in position. By supporting the shaft, the pilot bushing keeps the clutch disc centered in the pressure plate.
Pressure Plate Assembly