57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

[Ashley S.]

I'm trying to install the clutch return(assist) spring. I'm not sure if I'm calling it by the right name, but it is the spring that connects the frame and the cross shaft together.

The spring is very stiff and I'm trying to come up with a way to get it installed. Can anyone offer any tricks or point me to a tool that would help me do this? Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Ashley

[Michael K.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Ashley,

What worked for me was putting one end of the spring in a vice, bend the spring in one direction enough to install a washer in the opening between the coils. Keep doing this on opposite sides until you reach the top. The spring should be expanded enough to get the cotter pin through it. Once connected, have someone press in the clutch. The spring will expand enough for you to remove the washers.

Check the archives for previous posts, and there was an article in Corvette Restore that covered your question. Someone did come up with a tool to handle the installation.

[Steven B.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Ashley, I like Mike's method. Years ago, when I was more nimble and stronger, I used a very large screw driver through the frame end of the spring as a lever and pulled hard until I could slip the end of the spring over the frame end mount.

Good Luck!

Steve

[Dennis C.]

57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

A 12" Cresent wrench, properly applied, will get the job done in a matter of seconds. Best, Dennis

[Dale S.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Thank you for the reminder of the washers in the spring. I was trying to put a spring 1/8 dia.X 1/2 long on a lionel train. Shot it across the room twice and found it. I decided to look at the posts before the 3rd try. A couple of small pieced of card board replaced the washers and thank you it is on. Just shows how handy this board is. dale

[Greg P.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Listen to Denis, it is the easiest and safest!

[Steven B.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

A 12" Cresent wrench, properly applied, will get the job done in a matter of seconds. Best, Dennis

Dennis, it is well past my bedtime and I am full since we went with friends to our pre-rush hour dinner, resulting in not much else penetrating my head. How did you use the wrench? As a lever? Putting the end of the spring through the hole in the wrench?

Thanks!

Steve

[Dennis C.]

57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

OK, this isn't fair, 'cause its my bedtime, and its been a bit since I've done it, but...

Don't hook anything to the cross shaft. Period. At that point, you can rotate the shaft (rearward) to the point that you can hook up the big counterbalance spring by hand - no effort, no tricks, no danger, easy greasy...

At this point you need to rotate the cross shaft forward to pre load it. The lever to do this is the 12" cresent wrench. Approx a 1" opening will fit it over the welded piece which will later hook to the clutch pedal rod. Fit the cresent - this will be a vertical movement, rear to front. As you pass over center with the mechanical advantage of the wrench, line up and insert the clutch pedal retaining bolt, then washer, then 1/4" 20 nut.

Then, step back, marvel at your accomplishment & have a beer, cocktail or whatever.

From that point, the attachment & adjustment of the lower clutch linkage/throw-out arm is a no brainer.

Best of luck, Dennis

[John T.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Dennis's method is very similar to the one detailed in the ST-12. Either will work much easier and safer than the "washer" trick.

Good luck

John

[Edward B.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Dennis's method is by far the quickest and easiest. I've used it many, many times over the years with no difficulties.

[Bill M.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

Listen to Denis, it is the easiest and safest!

I Agree!

[Ashley S.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

I went home last night and tried the washer approach. It worked with no problems. I did see the hole in the frame that was mentioned in the Restorer article as well. It looks like that would be a good method as well.

Thanks for everyone's help.

On to the next challenge... Hoping to get the engine started this weekend.

[Steven B.]

Re: 57 Clutch Return Spring Installation Question

OK, this isn't fair, 'cause its my bedtime, and its been a bit since I've done it, but...

Don't hook anything to the cross shaft. Period. At that point, you can rotate the shaft (rearward) to the point that you can hook up the big counterbalance spring by hand - no effort, no tricks, no danger, easy greasy...

At this point you need to rotate the cross shaft forward to pre load it. The lever to do this is the 12" cresent wrench. Approx a 1" opening will fit it over the welded piece which will later hook to the clutch pedal rod. Fit the cresent - this will be a vertical movement, rear to front. As you pass over center with the mechanical advantage of the wrench, line up and insert the clutch pedal retaining bolt, then washer, then 1/4" 20 nut.

Then, step back, marvel at your accomplishment & have a beer, cocktail or whatever.

From that point, the attachment & adjustment of the lower clutch linkage/throw-out arm is a no brainer.

Best of luck, Dennis

OK, I am awake now Dennis and reread your instructions. This is a great method. Now if I can remember it when I am ready to reinstall my engine.

Thanks!

Steve