Hi Joe and Rusty
Looks like you'll have to get that tractor split so know what is causing the noise. You shouldn't ever be able to hear the throwout bearing. As dusty says, if you take it apart for the bearing you should just replace the disc and pressure plate. The pilot bearing in there is a metal backed plastic bushing with an oil seal, they give very little trouble. There is also a coupler in that shaft right at the front of the transmission, it could be dry and worn out causing noise. None of these things should make it grind gears though. It could have a worn out or bent finger in the pressure plate which would cause it to grind gears, it would also make the clutch feel soft too which you said it was. Best thing is take it apart and make sure all these things are right.
It really isn't a huge job, you do need a good floor to work on and at least a good floor jack with free turning wheels.
Ed
Looks like you'll have to get that tractor split so know what is causing the noise. You shouldn't ever be able to hear the throwout bearing. As dusty says, if you take it apart for the bearing you should just replace the disc and pressure plate. The pilot bearing in there is a metal backed plastic bushing with an oil seal, they give very little trouble. There is also a coupler in that shaft right at the front of the transmission, it could be dry and worn out causing noise. None of these things should make it grind gears though. It could have a worn out or bent finger in the pressure plate which would cause it to grind gears, it would also make the clutch feel soft too which you said it was. Best thing is take it apart and make sure all these things are right.
It really isn't a huge job, you do need a good floor to work on and at least a good floor jack with free turning wheels.
Ed