Pilot Bearing Tool: Kent-Moore J-43276

2002 Corvette Convertible, MN6 Transmission

I am getting prepared for my eventual clutch replacement. I just purchased the Kent-Moore tool for removing the pilot bearing that is specified in the service manual, J-43276. Having just received it, I can't figure out how it pulls the bearing other than pushing on the plug in the crankshaft, which seems like a very bad idea. I understand from reading the service manual how to use it, but can anyone who has used it explain how it works? What does it push on to pull out the bearing?

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
I think you purchased the installer, not the remover. That particular part number is not in SI, nor is it anything I have ever used for clutch installation.
The removal tool, J23907 is slide hammer with the adapter at the end to aid in removal. This is what I use.
Allthebest,

[ToolGuy]

J-43276 is listed as a Clutch Pilot Bearing remover. A remover for 4.3L engines with a manual trans. Comes in 2 pieces and does not say what it is also used with.

Vettnuts, let me know if you need a description of another tool before you buy it to make sure you get what you need.

This tool is listed in my 2002 Corvette Service Manual as the required tool. Page 6-225 under "Clutch Pilot Bearing Removal".

Tools Required

J 43276 Clutch Pilot Bearing Remover

Not sure why GM would require this tool, it pushes directly on the plug inside the crankshaft directly behind the pilot bearing.

[ToolGuy]

Well the tools initial intent could have been for the 4.3L but can be used and is used/called out for the Vettes. In that case our tool catalog needs to reference 5.7L or the Borg Warner and Tremec, MN6 & MM6.

I have not checked my GM serv manual though.

[motorman]

if you want to remove a bronze type pilot bushing just thread in a 5/8" course thead tap till it bottoms out on the crank and jusy keep turning the tap. this will force out the pilot bushing and it is a lot neater than filling the bore with grease and hammer a close fitting wooden rod into the hole

Its a needle bearing. Use of grease (the old way) will damage the plug in the back of the LS1 crankshaft.