I call it a throw-out bearing, but I think you Aussies call it something different....

Anyway, in the past couple of weeks I've begun to hear a slight rhythmic squeak when I have the clutch pedal depressed. How long might I have before it fails? Do these bearings fail catastrophically and throw bits of metal every which way? Furthermore, with the shared engine oil / trans is this potentially more damaging than would be for a "normal" car?

Thanks guys,

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1998 Rover Mk VII
2001 Honda CBR 929RR (street)
2014 BMW S1000RR (track)

If it is the bearing wearing out, then they will go at any time.

The usual is that it will seize, which means you can't press the clutch without stalling the engine. You will also damage the clutch diaphragm itself as the damaged bearing tries to spin against the plate.

It won't damage the engine itself, it will just leave you on the side of the road.

Its important with mini clutches not to ride them for too long at lights or in traffic. The more common clutch bearings don't last too long otherwise. But with a little sympathy will go a long way.

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SooperDooperMiniCooperExpertEngineering

All garage work involves equal measures of enthusiasm, ingenuity and a fair degree of irresponsibility.

The original 3W5-8 flat faced Timken or SKF bearing used up until 1965? is a much more durable bearing, but hard to find now.
Minisport Aust has some, I don't know for how long...

http://minisport.com.au/prod814.htm

[edit] oops I spoke too soon, are now out of stock and no ETA.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.

Rovers have a different one.....funky shape retained by an O ring.
Replace the O'ring whilst you're in there.

we call them throw out bearings too, ( especially the bad ones) the doc is spot on about 3w 5 -8 ones i think the newer made part is 7-8??

I still have a few SKF flat faced bearings left, for those interested pm me. $90 posted in australia

Thanks for the info everyone. As this car has passed 100,000K recently, I am thinking it's probably due for a new clutch as well. It still has some life in it, but add 2 passengers and you can feel it slipping a touch. I'll be wearing out the search button, to see what resources I can find on here in regards to replacing the clutch, the difficulty level, and what else should be inspected / replaced while I'm in there.

Harley, I believe this is the thrust bearing you are speaking of, and the site also references the retaining O-Ring. Is there anything else I should be considering if I am only doing the bearing, and not the whole clutch? Thanks,
http://minispares.com/product/classic/GRB239.aspx

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1998 Rover Mk VII
2001 Honda CBR 929RR (street)
2014 BMW S1000RR (track)

Yep thats the one you want. If you aren't doing the lot then just the bearing will be fine.
When you change the whole thing over you may want to consider a plunger shaft and slave cylinder.
I replaced everything on mine at about 90,000kms.