Pilot bushings are the small sintered bronze bushings, or sometimes needle bearings, that are installed into the rear part of the engine crank.  They may seem small and unimportant, but believe us, this can really make a difference in the transmission and clutch performance.  

 

To remove the old bushing, you can use a small puller.  A little trick we learned for easy removal is to pack the old bushing and crank cavity full of grease.   Then using a bolt or small shaft close to the same size of the inside diameter, simply tap it in and the hydraulic transfer will push the bushing out.  

 

On new installations, check the fit on the shaft and also make sure the new bushing is installed to the proper depth.  If the bushing is not installed to the proper depth, it could cause a drag on the transmission shaft which will cause shifting problems.  The bushing should have a minimum of .375" contact on the transmission shaft.  After installation of the bushing, double check the transmission shaft for fit.  Sometimes the press fit will shrink the inside diameter enough to create too tight of a fit.  Use a small piece of fine emery paper to enlarge .001” to .002”.

 

In most of the bellhousing adapter kits we sell, the crank pilot bushings are included.  The bushings listed show the outside & inside dimension, and the overall length.

 

NOTE:  Late model Jeeps used a 2-piece bearing.  The first piece is a bushing/bearing; the second piece is a steel sleeve that looks like part of the crank.  This steel sleeve must be removed when doing a conversion.