Genuine Mazda F801-11-303 Clutch Pilot / Spigot Bearing
Replacement Genuine Mazda clutch pilot bearing for Mazda MX-5 Mk1 NA, Mk2 NB and Mk2.5 NB-FL models with manual transmission.
The pilot bearing is installed in the centre of the flywheel and supports the front of the gearbox input shaft. It allows the input shaft and flywheel to rotate at different speeds when the clutch pedal is depressed.
A worn, dry or damaged bearing can create noise when the clutch is operated, contribute to gearbox input-shaft vibration or make gear selection less smooth. Because access requires removal of the gearbox and clutch assembly, replacing the bearing during clutch or flywheel work is recommended.
One pilot bearing is fitted per vehicle, and this listing supplies one Genuine Mazda bearing. It is supplied pre-greased and ready to install.
Transmission restriction: This component is used with manual transmissions. It is not required for automatic-transmission applications.
- Part type: Clutch pilot bearing
- Common names: Spigot bearing / flywheel bearing / gearbox input-shaft bearing
- Mazda catalogue description: Bearing, Ball – Flywheel
- Location: Centre of the flywheel
- Function: Supports and locates the gearbox input shaft
- Bearing type: Sealed ball bearing
- Approximate dimensions: 15mm internal diameter x 35mm external diameter x 11mm width
- Supplied pre-greased: Yes
- Quantity fitted per vehicle: 1
- Quantity supplied: 1 bearing
- Clutch kit included: No
- Flywheel included: No
- Release bearing included: No
- Brand: Genuine Mazda
- Mazda Part No.: F801-11-303
- MazSpec Shopify SKU: MO-F801-11-303
- Earlier Mazda reference: 9960-62-202
- MX-5 fitment: Mk1 NA, Mk2 NB and Mk2.5 NB-FL manual-transmission models
Possible signs of a worn pilot bearing:
- Whirring, grinding or squealing when operating the clutch
- Noise with the clutch pedal depressed
- Gearbox input-shaft vibration
- Difficulty selecting gears while stationary
- Roughness or excessive play when the bearing is inspected
- Bearing seized or damaged during flywheel removal
Fitment advice: This bearing fits the original manual-transmission flywheel and gearbox input-shaft arrangement used across Mazda MX-5 NA and NB models. Confirm compatibility where an aftermarket flywheel, alternative gearbox or engine conversion has been installed.
Replacement advice: The gearbox must be removed to access this bearing. It is therefore sensible to replace it whenever the clutch or flywheel is removed, even where the original bearing does not yet show obvious symptoms.
Other items to consider: Inspect the clutch friction plate, pressure plate, release bearing, release fork, gearbox input-shaft splines, rear crankshaft oil seal, flywheel surface and clutch slave cylinder. Consider purchasing a complete clutch kit where the existing components show wear.
Useful tools / consumables: Vehicle lift or axle stands, gearbox support, clutch-alignment tool, suitable internal bearing puller or extraction method, correctly sized bearing installer, calibrated torque wrench and a small amount of appropriate high-temperature grease where specified.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Advanced. The bearing itself is straightforward to install, but access requires gearbox removal and correct clutch and flywheel reassembly.
Why Genuine Mazda? Genuine Mazda pilot bearings match the original flywheel bore, gearbox input-shaft diameter, bearing width and sealing specification. Correct dimensions help support the input shaft accurately and provide smooth clutch disengagement.
What’s in the box: One Genuine Mazda clutch pilot / spigot bearing, Mazda part number F801-11-303.
Installation notes: Remove the gearbox, clutch and flywheel in accordance with the applicable Mazda workshop procedure. Extract the original bearing without damaging the flywheel bore. Clean and inspect the bore and gearbox input-shaft tip before installation. Press or drive the replacement bearing squarely using an installer that contacts only the outer bearing race. Do not apply force through the inner race. Refit the flywheel and clutch using the specified tightening procedures, align the clutch plate accurately and confirm smooth gearbox installation without forcing the input shaft through the new bearing.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk1 NA – 1.6 | NA6C | 1990–1998 | 90–115 | B6-ZE | Petrol | Manual | Flywheel-mounted clutch pilot bearing; one fitted per vehicle; automatic models excluded |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk1 NA – 1.8 | NA8C | 1994–1998 | 130–133 | BP-ZE | Petrol | Manual | Flywheel-mounted clutch pilot bearing; one fitted per vehicle; automatic models excluded |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk2 NB – 1.6 / 1.8 | NB6C / NB8C | 1998–2002 | 110–140 | B6-ZE / BP-4W | Petrol | 5-Speed / 6-Speed Manual | Flywheel-mounted clutch pilot bearing; one fitted per vehicle |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk2.5 NB-FL – 1.6 / 1.8 VVT / 1.8 Turbo | NB6C / NB8C | 2002–2005 | 110–185 | B6-ZE / BP-Z3 / BP-T | Petrol | 5-Speed / 6-Speed Manual | Flywheel-mounted clutch pilot bearing; one fitted per vehicle |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OEM Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | F801-11-303 |
| Mazda | 9960-62-202 |
| Mazda | 0483-24-514 |