Thrust Washer and Bearing Cleaning and Inspect

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Inspecting Thrust Washer For Damage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the thrust washer for wear or damage.
Replace worn or damaged thrust washers.

Fig 2: Inspecting Condition Of Thrust Bearings, Input Shaft Bearing & Output Shaft Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Do not allow the bearings to spin. Turn the bearings slowly by hand. Spinning bearings may cause damage to the rollers.

Inspect the condition of all thrust bearings, input shaft bearing, and output shaft bearing.
Wash the bearings thoroughly in a cleaning solvent. Apply compressed air to the bearings. Lubricate the bearings with light oil. Check the bearings for roughness by slowly turning the race by hand.