NV4500 Pilot bearing vs Bushing?

[Corvette1974]

Hello all, Real quick question.

I'm installing an NV4500 into my stock M1028 with an Advance Adapters bellhousing. It comes with a pilot bearing, and so does the clutch kit. I have a new pilot bushing laying around, too. Which should I use? I've heard the pilot bearing is not as good because the bellhousing needs to be aligned perfectly, which I don't really feel like knocking out the dowels and getting adjustable ones. Should I just use the pilot bushing?

Please let me know what you think.

Thanks,
Will

 

[davo727]

The needle bearings have a bad habit of departing and then the input shaft stub gets eaten up.

 

[Corvette1974]

The needle bearings have a bad habit of departing and then the input shaft stub gets eaten up.

That is what I am worried about. Never had a problem with the bushings, and never used a bearing. Now I'm leaning towards bearing. I've also heard different stories on whether to oil or grease it or install dry. Any hints?

Will

 

[Corvette1974]

I have a spare Jegs pilot bushing. It is made in USA - however it is slightly magnetic. It does appear to have leaked oil through the package so it definitely had oil. Is this safe to use on an NV4500 or should I get the supposedly good one from NAPA? And should it be oiled/soaked or greased?

Will

 

[gimpyrobb]

Use the bushing with a light coat of grease. Bearings go bad long before bushings.

 

[rustystud]

Use the bushing. Bearings are great if you service the clutch on a regular basis ( like delivery trucks) . Or are using a high horsepower engine with lots of torque. But for our trucks, just use the bushing.

 

[M37M35]

The needle bearings have a bad habit of departing and then the input shaft stub gets eaten up.

Been there, done that.

I use bushings and haven't had any issues with them.