Nowhere Man

and makes something so simple into something complex with more parts to go wrong

biggd

That's completely foolish, they are not complex at all. I bet you still have a flip phone because the new phones are too complex.
I was hesitant also when I was waffling between mechanical linkage and hydraulic. Now that I've seen and used both I wouldn't go back to mechanical.

65silververt

The external slave is tricky. If you don't get it set up just right, the pushrod will blow out. I know there were a lot of problems several years ago with the hydraulic throw out bearing kits that were offered from some manufacturers, but just like everything else, technology has advanced.
I'll extend and open offer for you to try out my cars with the hydraulic clutch kits and Ill even buy the beer.

Nowhere Man

you would be wrong again.

biggd

Well it's not the first time and won't be the last.

biggd

I didn't use a kit on mine. I went with the T56 trans with the factory slave on it from a 1996 Z28 Camaro. I agree about the aftermarket kits, many have problems. I really don't know much about the other trans you mentioned. I just like the fact that if I do have a problem with mine everything is external and available at the local parts store. I don't have a full blown resto-mod. I built my car on a budget so anything I could get from a scrap yard, like the engine and trans, was a bargain. I hope I don't jinx myself but I've had no issues for 4 years now.

vjjack04

So my original post wasn't for folks to discuss the merits of the stock c2 type over hydraulic or the reverse, it was for folks who have used the hydraulic to offer recommendations.... And I am surprised I didn't get more suggestions on different set ups to use....

wmf62

yes, postings do seem to morph or get hijacked; and i'm often guilty of that...

but you did get some good advice, even if SOME of it is on what not to use....

Bill

biggd

There are quite a few Resto-mod builders on this sight that have much more experience in this than I do but they are building show quality cars and money is usually not an issue.
That's not me, I built my custom car from scratch on a budget. I searched scrap yards for parts, and what I couldn't find I made. I built a modern driver not a show car. I wanted something with more creature comforts than were available back in the 60's but not so high tech that it took away from the feel of an old ride. It's still a work in progress and it always will be.
So it all depends on what your end game is. Good luck with your ride which ever way you decide to go.
.

dcaggiani

I have the American Powertrain system on my 5-speed - works smoothly and trouble free for the last 5 years - just saying.....
Love technology !!!!

vjjack04

Thanks, that's two votes for American Powertrain. Its funny some a so down oh the hydraulic systems. All newer vettes have had them for years. I had about 600hp in my C5 and never had problem "speed shifting" that car.

68hemi

Speed shifting and power shifting are two different things.

biggd

I don't see why a hydraulic unit wouldn't work the same as a manual unit if installed correctly. I can't confirm that because my power shifting days are well behind me. I try to avoid breaking things and power shifting a C2 Corvette with a stock rear end and big tires makes for a bad experience.

vjjack04

I think I've heard that. Regardless, I haven't ever noticed much difference in a hydraulic clutch over those without....except the pedal feel on a heavy racing manual fork clutch is considerably heavier.

vjjack04

Ok, for those of you who have done this (converted to Hydraulic)...have you considered this one [see picture] from "Modern Driveline"....I called them and it uses a set-up where the rod is not at an angle...as you can see/imagine from the fulcrum/leverage set up

4 Speed Dave

The clutch pedal on my Nova drag car I can push in with two fingers. Old school 2500 lb pressure plates of the past are just that, a thing of the past.

vjjack04

Interesting. I am sorry I got sucked into the manual vice hydraulic discussion...Still looking for more info on hydraulic...

appelen

agree!