I am changing my clutch and bearings next weekend and I was wondering if I should get the tool to remove the pilot bearing. A freind of mine has a garage with a lift and air tools, and he said he has all the tools necessary for a clutch job. I'm curious if the pilot bearing on an rx-7 is different from a conventional car. I know it is a tight fit but if he has the slide hammer tool that works for other cars will it work for mine?

 

I didnt get the mazda one, end up breaking the bearing

 

I've used a non mazda one before and didn't have any problems. It did keep slipping off the bearing and did definetly ruin the old one before it came out but I didn't care since it was being replaced anyway. Make sure you don't damage the inside of the eccentric(sp?) shaft.

 

I have the pilot bearing puller, and it makes the job SOOOO easy. If you plan on doing clutches and motors frequently then it would be a good investment. Otherwise just see what you can do. Some generic pullers will work. Some rotary shops will rent the puller to you if you buy a clutch from them.

 

I just got done putting a clutch and pilot bearing in two to three weeks ago. I just used a regular pilot bearing tool and slide hammer I rented from auto zone. Broke the old pilot bearing but since it was trash anyways, who cares. Only one thing though. I had to take a file and slightly file down the tips on the end of the tool. When it was closed together, it was just a lil too wide. But what autozone doesnt know wont hurt them.