I'm prepping my engine to go back into the Jeep, so I'm also replacing the clutch while everything is apart...

I bought a LUK RepSet Clutch kit. However, I notice the clutch release bearing is partially plastic.

I did some quick searches and it seems reviews of this plastic release bearing are primarily negative.

Does anyone have any experience with this plastic clutch release bearing? Any opinions to offer?

I'm considering buying a cast release bearing. Locally, it seems that the only cast bearing available is made by "National" which appears to be a Federal Mogul company. Any experience with these? Not sure if they're good or not.

I could also order a Sachs bearing from an eCommerce site... But the downside is I'd have to delay my plans of putting the engine back in for at least a week while I waited for the part.

The what you call "plastic" in the LUK bearing is actually a composite and is perfectly suitable and lasting.The composite is only in the nonwear sleeve part of the bearing and is completely encased by steel. Using an all cast one is a step backward. I've done many many Luk clutch installs without one failure. Can't say that about the other kits.

I used the national tob in my yj when I did mine. Don't know if the plastic /sheet metal one is any good, but I'm not taking the chance. I'll stick with what works. My son and I used a simular plastic tob that came in the kit for his honda, and it fell apart soon after, so I'm real leery of them.