76 auto to stick conversion - first steps
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 489
Likes: 29
From: Denville NJ
76 auto to stick conversion - first steps
Just starting to take inventory of what is needed to convert my automatic to stick....decision on trans and rear gears to come later...now just trying to get a handle on feasibility....for starters......the automatic frame does not have the bracket support on the frame for the clutch z bar. Is having one welded on the only option? Anyone with some experience with this step? How much trouble to get it positioned correctly?Can a welder get in there? Also, will my automatic cross member work? ... Thanks, bigjoepos
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 11,872
Likes: 12
From: Waterloo ontario Canada
Re: 76 auto to stick conversion - first steps (bigjoepos)
I converted my 75 from automatic to standard and any hydraulic clutched camaro bellhousing will work. It has the slave cylinder on the side. As for a hydraulic master on your car I found the 85 one ton truck with only a linkage change bolted right up to the existing holes.
To me the hardest part of this swap is installing the pedal assembly. Find a good assembly can also be difficult. The steering wheel must come out and also remove the drivers seat.
Good luck
To me the hardest part of this swap is installing the pedal assembly. Find a good assembly can also be difficult. The steering wheel must come out and also remove the drivers seat.
Good luck
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,381
Likes: 416
From: N J
Re: 76 auto to stick conversion - first steps (bigjoepos)
On my 80, even though it was an auto from the factory, they all came off the line with 2 holes in the frame, allready tapped to accept the tower for the z bar. I simply bolted it on. You may want to consider this route, just pick one up for an 80, drill 2 holes and run a tap thru them. I would not drill or weld anything till you have the z bar handy to make sure its at 90 degrees from the ball stud in the block.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 11,872
Likes: 12
From: Waterloo ontario Canada
Re: 76 auto to stick conversion - first steps (norvalwilhelm)
Why would anyone want to run mechanical linkage? It interfers with the heads, binds when under extreme load and is outdated. The new hydraulic systems are easy to install, leaves all the room you want for the exhaust and pedal travel is so smooth. They also bolt directly to our fire wall, the holes are already drilled.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 489
Likes: 29
From: Denville NJ
Re: 76 auto to stick conversion - first steps (bigjoepos)
Well that was interesting....I like the sound of hydraulic system.....I guess the camaro bell route sounds like a good fix if I go with a 4 speed...........I am tempted to mix it up a bit with a 5 speed......but that is the next string of messages.....Thanks for the info...I am new to CF and this was my virgin posting.....BJP
