Abstract: A release bearing having an axial bore is received for sliding movement on a guide member thereon. The bore is provided with substantially rigid bearing bosses disposed at the axial extremities of generatrices of the bore and having inclined leading edges. In operation they deflect the dirt or grime that may be present on the guide member into passages circumferentially between bearing bosses and then on to a cavity or recess in the bore. Preferably the pairs of bearing bosses are interconnected by axial ribs. The axial ribs in turn delimit grooves which make up the dirt and grime collecting recess or cavity. Alternatively, intermediate bosses may be provided between pairs of bearing bosses. The bearing surface of the ribs may be part cylindrical or define line or point contact.

Abstract: A clutch release bearing of the self-centering variety in which a drive member is clamped to a flange on an operating member by means of a resilient washer clipped to a bearing plate member. The bearing plate member protects the flange as it is interposed between the associated release fork and the flange. Raised interlock portions, in axial registry with retaining portions cooperating with the release fork, are received in notches along the inner periphery of the bearing plate member and prevent relative rotation between the operating member and the bearing plate member. Axial tabs may be provided along tangential edges of the notches, overlying the flats on the raised interlock portions for preventing wear due to the release fork. An axial tongue protruding in the same direction as the axial tabs insures reassembly of the release bearing on the release fork with the original relative orientation.