'58 clutch cross shaft alignment

[Susan G.]

I just replaced the clutch cross shaft frame mounting bracket. The bracket is on an angle per service guide. Now that the cross shaft is installed, there is a gap where the cross shaft meets the ball on the mounting bracket. It seems like the engine mounting bracket and frame mounting bracket are not allowing the cross shaft to be parallel. It looks like its a quarter of an inch out. My question is, will this wear the cross shaft and mount braket if I don't fix it. Thanks, Susan

[William C.]

Re: '58 clutch cross shaft alignment

You are working between two ball studs and there should be bearing inserts inside the cross-shaft to accept the balls. That system is built to allow differences id the location points of each end withous undue stress, as lond as all the parts are in place and lubricated.