Scratching noise from transmission area

[sassafras]

Car is a '96 GTS with 34K miles on it and as far as I can tell it is still on the original clutch. I've had a scratching(kinda like nails on chalkboard) / whirling sounds develop today from the transmission area from the best I can hear. Only happens when the car is in gear and gets worse the higher the RPM's climb. If I press in the clutch pedal the sound will slowly diminish in intensity over a few seconds until it goes away, and it does not start back up again until the clutch pedal is released. Am I looking at a throw out bearing or pilot bearing or possibly something worse?

 

[gutterworks129]

Too many "neutral drops" LOL Clutch kit will fix it.

 

[sassafras]

Too many "neutral drops" LOL Clutch kit will fix it.

Funny you say that, the noise became apparent today after I finished off some old tires that were waaaaaaaaay past their expiration. So you think it's something in the clutch then?

 

[Jack B]

The hydraulic slave bearing or the pilot bearing could be the issue. Both require the trans to be pulled.

 

[sassafras]

Is OEM the best option for the pilot bearing. I know about being a stock slave and the LUK clutch kits but I'm unsure about the pilot bearing.

 

[Jack B]

Is OEM the best option for the pilot bearing. I know about being a stock slave and the LUK clutch kits but I'm unsure about the pilot bearing.

you get the pilot bearing with either the LUK clutch or the hydraulic slave.

 

[sassafras]

Quick update. Replaced the clutch, pilot bearing, TOB, and slave cylinder this weekend; the noise is gone now.