Clutch Pedal Linkage
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 118
Likes: 0
From: Knoxville TN
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Clutch Pedal Linkage
I did a search trying to find out the best way to replace the retainer/clip that connects the clutch push rod to the top of the clutch pedal on a 77 and didn't come up with many details.
I know it's a pain to get at it. With the seat out and standing on my head I can see the rod but getting get back together looks to be another story. To the wise and experienced forum what's the best procedure for this job? Remove the steering colum? the dash?
Help?
Thanks for any info,
ScottSuff
I know it's a pain to get at it. With the seat out and standing on my head I can see the rod but getting get back together looks to be another story. To the wise and experienced forum what's the best procedure for this job? Remove the steering colum? the dash?
Help?
Thanks for any info,
ScottSuff
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 3,407
Likes: 2
From: Carmichael CA
It is a very tight squeeze, but you don't have to remove anything. It's been awhile, but as I recall you can't do it by sight...just touch...or use a mirror. I believe the best way to access it is on your knees on the side of the drivers door reaching in and around the steering column. But, you might be able to get to it lying down with your legs sticking out the passenger door. I think it's a matter of comfort while you blindly fiddle with the rod and clip. It's been awhile, but I've done the job several times...just be prepared to spend like 10 minutes in whatever position you choose while you get the parts together and the clip inserted.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,812
Likes: 4
From: Gig Harbor Wa
When I took out the clutch rod, I actually left the seat, dash and steering column in. I laid on my back on the seat with my legs up the back of the seat. I could see and reach everything OK. Takes some time.
I just installed a new bracket for my LS hydraulic clutch master and this time I had the dash out already. Made it a lot easier, but it wouldn't be worth pulling the dash just for the clutch rod.
I just installed a new bracket for my LS hydraulic clutch master and this time I had the dash out already. Made it a lot easier, but it wouldn't be worth pulling the dash just for the clutch rod.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,285
Likes: 4,375
From: Westminster Maryland
It's a tough job to get at. I always have to take the seat out.
The trick I've discovered is to teach a 2 year old to do it. They fit in the foot well, are use to doing things while laying on their back, and their arms and hands are just the right size. Plus they are willing to be paid in Popsicles.
Regards,
Alan
The trick I've discovered is to teach a 2 year old to do it. They fit in the foot well, are use to doing things while laying on their back, and their arms and hands are just the right size. Plus they are willing to be paid in Popsicles.
Regards,
Alan
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,098
Likes: 378
From: Las Vegas - Just stop perpetuating myths please.
Long set of needle nose pliers.
I recall i used an extra long needle pliers working on that linkage. U can find them most parts stores.
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,528
Likes: 148
From: East London/SW Essex UK
I recall i used an extra long needle pliers working on that linkage. U can find them most parts stores.
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
I lost the small plastic split grommet thing that retains the nipple end of the cable on the pedal arm - what a serious pita. I simply took a piece of 1/2" x 2" x 1/16" strip steel, drilled a 3/32" hole at one end, took a junior hacksaw and cut a slot from the opposite end of the strip to the drilled hole, cleaned-off all the burrs ect, then slipped it over the end of the cable, the weight of the strip ensures that it will not fall off - for a little extra insurance just squeeze closed the opposite end of the strip (like a scissor action) - it won't fall off! Quick fix.
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Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 118
Likes: 0
From: Knoxville TN
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Well, got it done today. I hope it's correct, never did see what I was doing, all by feel.
I'd like to know what happened to the old retaining clip. The clutch went to the floor and the washer fell in the floorboard. Never did see the old clip or whatever held it together before. The mirror sounds like a good idea, maybe to ensure what I did looks good.
Thanks everyone for the help.
ScottSuff
I'd like to know what happened to the old retaining clip. The clutch went to the floor and the washer fell in the floorboard. Never did see the old clip or whatever held it together before. The mirror sounds like a good idea, maybe to ensure what I did looks good.
Thanks everyone for the help.
ScottSuff
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 1,345
Likes: 3
I recall i used an extra long needle pliers working on that linkage. U can find them most parts stores.
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
Problem i had was getting good light on the linkage to see what i was doing. I remmember setting a mirror up in there too just to see what i needed to do and check everything was installed correctly.
Good luck,
cardo0
I used a fairly long needle nose and left all other components in place. I recall I could see the pin when on my back looking up, legs over the top of the seat back (top down for extra room).
Good Luck!!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,098
Likes: 378
From: Las Vegas - Just stop perpetuating myths please.
Well i had to take my drivers seat out - just not enough flex in my back to work it with the seat in.
I know its a bit late now but i rebuilt my assemble with a bushing replacement kit from Zip or maybe Dr. Rebuild. Repainted the levers then loaded the assembly with brand new teflon bushings - and a light coat of grease. But it still took a lot of 4 letter works to reinstall everything.
cardo0
I know its a bit late now but i rebuilt my assemble with a bushing replacement kit from Zip or maybe Dr. Rebuild. Repainted the levers then loaded the assembly with brand new teflon bushings - and a light coat of grease. But it still took a lot of 4 letter works to reinstall everything.
cardo0
Race Director
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 19,659
Likes: 34
From: Lenoir City Tennessee
Ci 6, 8 & 10 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
When I installed the Speed Direct Clutch Linkage kit I worked it with the seat in place and my feet up over the back of the seat. Its fun getting into that position and even more fun getting back out but that is what worked for me.
