111-141-177A VW Clutch Release Bearing Clips (Each) - Beetle, Bus, Ghia

VW Clutch Release Bearing Clips – 111-141-177A

Ensure your clutch system remains reliable with these essential Clutch Release Bearing Clips (also known as throw-out bearing retaining clips). These spring-steel clips are responsible for securing the release bearing to the operating shaft forks. Without properly tensioned clips, the bearing can shift or detach entirely inside the bellhousing, leading to a total loss of clutch operation and potential damage to the pressure plate.

The 111-141-177A is the factory-correct retaining hardware for all "early style" unguided release bearings. Over years of use and heat cycles, original clips can become brittle or lose their "spring," making them prone to popping off during gear changes. Because these are only accessible by removing the engine, replacing them with high-quality new clips is highly recommended during any clutch or transmission service as cheap insurance against future failure.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility These clips fit early-style unguided clutch systems across these models:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970

VW Bus (Type 2):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970

VW Type 3:

• 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970

VW Thing (Type 181):

• 1973, 1974

Product Highlights & Features High-Tension Spring Steel: Manufactured from durable spring steel to maintain a constant grip on the clutch fork even under high vibration and heat.

Corrosion Resistant: Built to withstand the harsh environment of the transmission bellhousing without losing structural integrity.

Precision Fitment: Designed to match the original 111-141-177A dimensions for a snap-in installation on stock operating shafts.

Critical Safety Hardware: Provides the necessary mechanical lock to keep the throw-out bearing centered and engaged with the pressure plate thrust ring.

Technical Specifications Part Number: 111-141-177A

Material: Formed Spring Steel

Quantity Required: 2 per vehicle (Sold Each)

Application: Early Unguided Release Bearings

Installation & Maintenance Tips The "Snap" Test: When installing, you should feel and hear a distinct "snap" as the clip seats into the groove. If the clip feels loose, do not use it; a loose clip can vibrate off during operation.

Orientation Matters: Ensure the "ears" of the clips are facing the correct direction according to the factory manual to prevent interference with the pressure plate.

Verify Bearing Style: These clips are strictly for the "early" 1950-1970 unguided bearings. If your transmission has a guide tube for the bearing to slide on (standard from 1971-on), you require a different style of retaining hardware.

Check the Fork Holes: Before snapping the clips in, inspect the holes in the operating shaft forks. If the holes are elongated or worn, the clips may not sit securely.