Ever hop in your Can-Am Commander, turn the key, and hear a nasty, high-pitched grinding sound that makes you cringe? Or maybe you’ve noticed when you’re heading down a steep trail, that trusty engine braking you rely on has suddenly gone on vacation. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
These are classic symptoms of a failing clutch component. We promise this guide will demystify the issue and give you the confidence to tackle it head-on.
In this in-depth article, we’re diving deep into the can am commander one way bearing. We’ll cover what it is, the unmistakable signs of failure, a complete step-by-step replacement guide, and some pro tips to keep your rig running flawlessly on the trails. Let’s get those tools ready.
What Exactly is a Can-Am Commander One-Way Bearing?
Think of the one-way bearing, also known as a sprag clutch, as the silent, hardworking gatekeeper inside your primary clutch. It’s a small but mighty part with two incredibly important jobs.
Its design is simple yet brilliant: it allows free rotation in one direction but instantly locks up when forced to rotate in the opposite direction. This simple mechanical action is fundamental to both starting your machine and controlling its speed on descents.
Without this component working correctly, your Commander’s performance and reliability take a significant hit. It’s not just a convenience; it’s a core part of the drivetrain’s function.
The Two Critical Jobs of Your One-Way Bearing
To truly understand its importance, let’s break down its dual roles. This little bearing is constantly at work from the moment you start the engine to the second you shut it off.
- Starting the Engine: When you turn the key, the starter engages the flywheel (or a gear connected to it), which in turn spins the one-way bearing. The bearing locks, transferring that rotational force to the crankshaft and firing up your engine. Once the engine is running faster than the starter, the bearing “freewheels,” disengaging the starter motor to prevent damage.
- Providing Engine Braking: This is where you feel it most on the trail. When you let off the throttle to go down a hill, the wheels are now turning the drivetrain faster than the engine is. The one-way bearing locks again, connecting the wheel speed back to the engine. This forces the engine’s natural compression to slow the machine down, giving you control and saving your brakes.
Telltale Signs: Common Problems with Can Am Commander One Way Bearing Failure
A failing one-way bearing isn’t subtle. Your machine will give you clear signals that something is wrong inside the clutch housing. Recognizing these symptoms early can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs down the road.
Here are the most common problems with a can am commander one way bearing that’s on its way out:
- Horrible Grinding on Startup: This is the number one symptom. It sounds like metal-on-metal carnage and usually happens right as the engine fires. This is the sound of the bearing failing to engage or disengage cleanly with the starter system.
- Loss of Engine Braking: You’re heading down a familiar hill, let off the gas, and suddenly the machine feels like it’s in neutral, free-wheeling and picking up speed. This means the bearing is not locking under deceleration to slow you down.
- Starter “Kicking Back”: Sometimes, a faulty bearing can cause a harsh kickback or clank when starting. It feels violent and is a sure sign of an engagement issue.
- Intermittent Starting: You turn the key and hear the starter whirring, but the engine doesn’t turn over. You try again, and it works. This inconsistency often points to a worn-out bearing that only grabs sometimes.
Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs
It can be tempting to ignore a noise that only happens for a second during startup. Don’t do it.
Continuing to run a machine with a failed one-way bearing can cause catastrophic damage. The broken pieces of the bearing can score the clutch housing, damage the flywheel, and even destroy your starter. What starts as a relatively inexpensive bearing replacement can quickly turn into a four-figure repair bill.
How to Replace Your Can Am Commander One Way Bearing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get your hands dirty? This job is well within the reach of a determined DIY mechanic with the right tools. This can am commander one way bearing guide will walk you through the process. Take your time, stay organized, and you’ll be back on the trail in no time.
Safety First: Before you start, park your Commander on a level surface, put it in park, and set the parking brake. Disconnect the negative terminal on your battery to prevent any accidental starts. Always wear safety glasses.
Tools & Parts You’ll Need
Gathering everything beforehand makes the job go much smoother. There’s nothing worse than having to stop mid-project for a tool run.
-
Essential Tools:
- Primary Clutch Puller (This is NOT optional. You need the specific puller for your model.)
- Impact Wrench (for the clutch bolt)
- Torque Wrench (for reassembly)
- Socket Set & Ratchet
- Snap Ring Pliers
- Dead Blow Hammer or Mallet
- Bearing Press or a large socket and vise for installation
- Brake Cleaner or Degreaser
- Clean Rags
-
Parts:
- New One-Way Bearing (OEM or a quality aftermarket upgrade)
- New Primary Clutch Cover Gasket
- Loctite (Blue or Red, check your service manual)
The Removal Process
This is where the fun begins. Keep your parts organized in a tray as you remove them.
- Access the Clutches: Remove any skid plates, panels, or rocker panels necessary to get to the CVT clutch cover. On most Commanders, it’s a black plastic housing on the driver’s side of the engine.
- Remove the CVT Cover: Undo the numerous bolts holding the cover on. Carefully pry it off. Be prepared; some belt dust will likely fall out.
- Remove the Primary Clutch Bolt: Use your impact wrench to zip off the long bolt in the center of the primary clutch (the one closest to the front of the vehicle).
- Pull the Primary Clutch: Thread your clutch puller tool into the bolt hole by hand until it stops. Then, use a wrench or impact to tighten the puller. It will push against the crankshaft and pop the clutch off the tapered shaft. It might take a good bit of force and may pop off with a loud bang—this is normal.
- Disassemble the Clutch: Take the primary clutch to your workbench. You will need to remove the spring and weights to get to the inner sheave where the one-way bearing is housed. Take pictures as you go if you’re worried about reassembly. You’ll likely need to remove a large snap ring to release the bearing.
The Installation Process
With the old bearing out, you’re halfway there. Careful and clean reassembly is the key to a long-lasting repair.
- Clean Everything: This is a crucial step in our can am commander one way bearing care guide. Use brake cleaner and rags to thoroughly clean the clutch housing, sheaves, and all related parts. Get all the belt dust and grime out.
- Install the New Bearing: This is the most critical step. The bearing MUST be installed in the correct direction. It should spin freely in one direction and lock in the other. Test the new bearing before you press it in to be sure you know which way it goes. Use a press or a large socket that only contacts the outer race of the bearing to gently and evenly press it into its housing.
- Reassemble the Primary Clutch: Carefully put the clutch back together in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure the spring is seated correctly and all snap rings are fully engaged in their grooves.
- Reinstall the Clutch: Slide the primary clutch back onto the crankshaft. Ensure the tapered shaft is clean and dry.
- Torque the Bolt: Apply the recommended Loctite to the clutch bolt threads. Thread it in and use your torque wrench to tighten it to the exact specification in your service manual. Do not guess this value. Overtightening or undertightening can lead to catastrophic failure.
- Button It Up: Reinstall the CVT cover with your new gasket. Reinstall any panels or skid plates you removed. Reconnect your battery.
Pro Tips & Best Practices for Your One-Way Bearing
Want to get the most life out of your new bearing? Following a few can am commander one way bearing best practices can make a huge difference.
Proper Maintenance and Care
Your CVT system lives in a harsh environment. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way.
- Keep it Clean: Periodically remove your clutch cover and use compressed air to blow out all the belt dust. This dust is abrasive and can work its way into bearings and moving parts.
- Keep it Dry: A good clutch cover seal is your best friend. If you do a lot of water crossings, make sure your seal is in perfect condition to keep water and mud out. Water is the number one killer of clutch components.
- Use the Right Belt: Always use a high-quality drive belt specified for your Commander. A worn or incorrect belt can cause slippage and put extra stress on the entire clutch system.
Upgrading vs. OEM: Choosing the Right One-Way Bearing
When you’re buying a replacement, you’ll face a choice: stick with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or go with an aftermarket upgrade?
The benefits of a can am commander one way bearing from the OEM are that you know it fits perfectly and meets the original factory specs. For a stock machine used for light trail riding, an OEM bearing is often perfectly adequate.
However, if you’re running larger, heavier tires, have engine performance mods, or frequently haul heavy loads, a heavy-duty aftermarket bearing is a wise investment. These are often made with stronger materials and better cages to withstand the increased stress, providing greater durability and peace of mind on the trail.
A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
Being a responsible off-roader extends to our garages. When performing this repair, we can make choices that are better for the environment. This is where a sustainable can am commander one way bearing approach comes in.
Instead of harsh, solvent-based cleaners, consider using a high-quality biodegradable degreaser to clean your clutch parts. When you’re done, take your old metal bearing to a local metal recycler instead of just tossing it in the trash.
Furthermore, choosing a high-quality, durable replacement part is an eco-friendly can am commander one way bearing practice in itself. A part that lasts twice as long means half the waste and half the resources consumed over the life of your machine.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can Am Commander One Way Bearing
How long does a Can-Am one-way bearing typically last?
There’s no set lifespan. It depends heavily on riding conditions. A machine that sees a lot of mud, water, and steep hills will wear out a bearing much faster than one used for gentle cruising on dry trails. With good maintenance, many owners see 3,000-5,000 miles, but failure can happen much sooner if the clutches are contaminated.
Can I replace just the bearing, or do I need a whole new clutch?
In most cases, you can absolutely replace just the bearing. As long as the housing where the bearing sits is not damaged, scored, or wallowed out, a simple bearing swap is all that’s needed. Inspect the housing carefully when you have it apart.
What’s the most common mistake people make during this repair?
The two most common and costly mistakes are installing the bearing backward and failing to properly torque the primary clutch bolt. Installing the bearing backward will result in either no engine braking or a no-start condition. Improper torque on the bolt can cause the clutch to come loose and destroy itself and the crankshaft.
Is a special tool really necessary to pull the primary clutch?
Yes, 100%. Do not try to use a gear puller or pry on the clutch. You will damage it. The specific clutch puller tool is designed to apply force exactly where it’s needed to safely pop the clutch off its tapered shaft without causing any harm.
Tackling a job like replacing your can am commander one way bearing is a fantastic way to save a bundle on labor costs and get to know your machine on a deeper level. The satisfaction of fixing it yourself and hearing it start up perfectly without that awful grind is second to none.
Take your time, use the right tools, and follow the steps carefully. You’ve got this. Now get it fixed and get back out on the trails where you and your Commander belong. Stay safe and happy riding!
- Can-Am Outlander Years To Avoid – A Mechanic’S Guide To Buying Smart - November 30, 2025
- Polaris Sportsman 570 Vs Can Am Outlander 700 – The Ultimate Off-Road - November 30, 2025
- Can Am Outlander Fuel Pump Problems – Your Complete DIY Diagnostic & - November 30, 2025