GM pressure plate interchange for '63-7 SB?

[G B.]

I've never found an aftermarket diaphragm pressure plate with the soft pedal pressure of the old GM #3841673 (discontinued in '84). Some come close enough to be tolerable, but they just aren't the same. I've tried the alleged OEM replacement designs currently made by Sachs, Luk, and Borg & Beck, as well as hot rod types like Centerforce, Schiefer, Zoom, Hayes, and others. To all those who have used such replacement clutches and love them: I'm very happy for you. For those of you who still long for the soft stock feel of the '63-7 assembly line clutch pedal: please help me find a good substitute pressure plate.

I know GM still sells a 10.5" diaphragm pressure plate for the '82-4 Camaro. It is not listed as a replacement for the old Corvette part #3841673, however. Does anyone have one of these Camaro pressure plates that you can measure? I'm wondering if it is possible to install this in a mid-year somehow. I'm interested in the installed height and the bolt circle dimensions. None of the local dealers have this Camaro pressure plate in stock for me to fondle.

Joe, I assume that you've got an NOS #3841673 (NOT for sale) and can furnish some dimensions if needed. Am I right?

[G B.]

Camaro pressure plate clarification

The currently available GM 10.5" pressure plate for the '84 - '92 (not '82-4) Camaro is #10232737. That number replaces the original part that was #14079939. I think.

[John Daly]

Re: GM pressure plate interchange for '63-7 SB?

Jerry,
For part number 10232737 the bolt holes are at a diameter of 11 5/8". Three of the holes are 3/8", the other three are slighly larger(.401"). The finger height is 2.1" from the flange face. hope this helps.
John

[Joe L.]

Re: GM pressure plate interchange for '63-7 SB?

Jerry-----

I don't know if I have one of those, or not. I'll have to check later. I know that I have MANY different original 63-72 Corvette pressure plate assemblies [none for sale], but I don't know if I have that one.

[G B.]

Thanks John

Was that height measured with the pressure plate bolted to a flywheel with a disc in between?

Also, please measure the diameter of the opening in the center of the diaphragm fingers with the pressure plate installed (as described above)?

[John Daly]

Re: GM pressure plate interchange for '63-7 SB?

Jerry,
The opening at the edge of the fingers is 1.6". At the top of the finger radius
this is 2.15". The finger height dimension of 2.1" is in the engaged position.
The release travel is 0.44 ".
JD

[G B.]

Above and beyond

John, you've really outdone yourself. I sure appreciate it.

I'm going to measure an NOS 3841673 pressure plate and compare it with your stats. I'm in the process of buying it this week. I hope to have it here around New Year's.

Since you're the only one who really seems interested in this research, I'll e-mail the comparison figures directly to you and not bore the others.

[Don Shirey]

Re: Above and beyond

Jeery,
I would be interesting in whether the Camaro PP is a good replacement for the 63-67 Corvette unit.

Regards,
Don 31553