A pilot bearing is mounted in the middle of the engine and the clutch and allows for the speed difference between the transmission and the crankshaft. You can find it in the center of the crankshaft flange.
Pilot bearings importanceThe pilot bearings are either bearing or bushings and the bearing type can be a ball, roller, or needle bearings loaded with grease. The pilot bearing is significant to rear-wheel-drive and vehicles with a manual transmission. This component supports and centers the transmission input shaft and clutch disc. Once the clutch is released, the pilot bearing lets the flywheel maintain the RPM while the input shaft slowly comes to a halt.
Common issues with a faulty pilot bearingA faulty pilot bearing can cause the transmission to pop out of gear, uncommon noise, and complete failure of transmission.