[limerocket]

The pilot bearing is not subjected to any axial loading from the drive shaft at any point in T/O bearing travel.

The contact faces of the release lever where it bears against the T/O bearing thrust flange is subject to wear and will develop a ridge over time (.020"ish) It is conceivable that the "tick" you hear at full throw is simply the thrust flange tripping over the wear ridge, and it may become less apparent with use as the two parts conform. For what it's worth, I usually put a bit of grease on the thrust flange during installation.

Perhaps more likely is the T/O bearing tripping on a wear ridge on the guide tube if dry and not replaced with new.