Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

[Michael A.]

While disassembling the pedal assembly last night on my 66 SB roadster, I removed the clutch rod and thought it looked a bit odd. It has two modest, yet distinct bends in it. One bend is closer to the adjusting nut end of the rod while the other bend is closer to the pedal end of the rod. Is this how they should look or is this the effects of 51 years of usage? I'd appreciate some experience eyes and opinions on this. Thanks

[Gene M.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

From my experience there is only one bend towards the hole end. The other bend in your photo looks easy to correct.

[Michael A.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

Thanks Gene for the reply. One other question for you. The hole in the hole end is worn oval. Would you suggest replacing the rod or should I consider welding it and re drilling the hole?

Btw, the pin that rides in the hole is also very worn. I've looked for a replacement but cannot find one without replacing the plate it rides in. The pin has a small hole drilled thru it for the spring clip that holds the rod in place. I'm inclined to replace the pin but don't want to replace the original plate. Any suggestions on sources for the pin?

[Jim D.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

Weld up the hole and drill a new one. I've done several that way without any issues.

[Edward J.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

Mike to add to Jim's fix, you can also use a door hinge bushing at this point. may just require a drill and bushing. This is just another fix for this problem. maybe a bit easier than welding as most guys don't have a welder or someone handy.

[Gene M.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

Thanks Gene for the reply. One other question for you. The hole in the hole end is worn oval. Would you suggest replacing the rod or should I consider welding it and re drilling the hole?

Btw, the pin that rides in the hole is also very worn. I've looked for a replacement but cannot find one without replacing the plate it rides in. The pin has a small hole drilled thru it for the spring clip that holds the rod in place. I'm inclined to replace the pin but don't want to replace the original plate. Any suggestions on sources for the pin?

Mike,
I would (as I did mine) weld it and resize the hole. I used 316 stainless so it would stand up to the wear better. But not really necessary. I used a small carbide and die grinder to custom size it on the close side. Agree replace the pin, as it is difficult to regrind round. Try farm supply store or good independent auto pars shop. On line you can find just about anything if you have the time to look.

Another thought if you have access to a lath is size up the holes and turn a new pin. The pin with the hole thru the block is available with Corvette vendors.

[Timothy B.]

Re: Does this 66 SB clutch rod look right?

Mike to add to Jim's fix, you can also use a door hinge bushing at this point. may just require a drill and bushing. This is just another fix for this problem. maybe a bit easier than welding as most guys don't have a welder or someone handy.

I like Ed's fix, oversize the hole and use a bushing. Remove the bolt on bracket from the pedal and cut the pin flat and drive it out after measuring length. I used the untreated portion of a grade eight bolt and drilled the small hole then cut to length and had the bolt head welded to the bracket on the back side. Make sure to use the correct hole in the bracket as some service replacement brackets have two holes and it may have been replaced in the past.

Your clutch pedal push rod is simply bent at the threaded portion and if you take your time you can straighten.