430 Important info about OE Clutch Release Bearing / TOB

As always, Im posting for sharing so that I can help educate others, share my experience & hopefully help others save some money and avoid frustration.

My 2006 F430 Spider was in for bi-annual service at Ferrari of Seattle on April 4, 2019 at 37,933 miles. It was noted that the clutch release bearing is leaking oil. Crap……….

Reference: OE Ferrari Clutch Release Bearing / Thrust Bearing / Throw Out Bearing P/N: 234943 ($758.00 @ Ricambi)

A new complete clutch assembly was installed on my car on Jan 16, 2015 at 21,500 miles at Ferrari of Scottsdale by the previous owner. The rest of the other clutch parts were also replaced including F1 clutch sensor kit 243784 & pressure sensor 205743, Clutch Throw Out bearing 234943, etc.

I’m very disappointed that at after only 4 years & only 16K miles the OE Ferrari Clutch Release Bearing / Thrust Bearing 234943 has already failed. Totally unacceptable in my book.

Estimate provided by Ferrari of Seattle to replace the clutch TOB = $7,850.00. Dang…….

Based on the above experience I cannot recommend to anyone to use original Ferrari Clutch Throw Out Bearing when their clutch is due for replacement.

I read great reviews about a much improved Clutch TOB made by Hill Engineering, Part #: CRB360/430F1S ($455.00 at Ricambi.) I will use the Hill Engineering TOB this time.

I found an independent Ferrari mechanic close to me that came highly recommended and I’m certain he can do it for much better price than the dealer.. A quote is on its way.

Just thought I’d share.

Note: I have no business affiliation with Ricambi or Hill Engineering.

Here's photos of what clutch TOB from Hill Engineering looks like.

Hope this info helps some of you.

Dan

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Oil drippings is present on the engine bottom panel.

Oil is coming from the clutch inspection hole where the throw out bearing is located.

 

Just want to add that my clutch wear is only at 25%.

I'm hoping that the TOB will last another 3 years so that I can just have it replaced when its time for a new clutch.
Speaking with the Indi today, the chance of the OE TOB lasting another 2 - 3 years once it starts leaking is fairly slim............

 

Thanks for sharing on how much to expect to pay for labor from an Indi mechanic.

Dan

 

Yes, I agree but my understanding is they are replaced as an assembly.

 

Got it. I understand better now.

Thanks for sharing great info

Dan

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Hi Paul,

No other symptoms, F1 shifts properly, no noise or any F1 anomaly other than the Scud Ing F1 solid state relay beeping 7 times fault once in a while when I come home from a drive which means the F1 pump is cycling more than the usual.

As far as why not just replace the seal: I dont know much about the TOB. I dont plan on replacing the part myself as I understand its a big job so I figure since I'm paying for labor already might as well replace the weak OE TOB and replace it with Hill Engineering which is better designed and I understand will last longer than OE part.

Have you replaced just the TOB seals on yours? How difficult is it to do?

Thanks in advance.

Dan

 

Hi Paul,

Yes, I l already purchased the Maserati Hydraulic Accumulator which I understand is a direct compatible with the Ferrari one but for much less price.
I will ask the Indi mechanic while he's there to go ahead and replace the hydraulic accumulator too.

Will keep you guys posted and continue to share knowledge and experience.

Dan

 

Yikes! Expensive mistake there by the dealer / previous owner.

Yes, Im going with HE TOB this time and also replace whatever else needs to be replaced while the gearbox is out.

Thanks for sharing info.

Dan