1960 Clutch rod Bushing

[Philip P.]

After reading the article in the lastesr Restorer by Stephen Gansky, it brought back my problem with said bushing. After replacing it 3 times in about 2 years I was trying to figure out what was I doing wrong or was it the part. My belief is the replacement is not the same as the original. The original was an oilite bushing in the rubber housing, the replacement is a steel bushing. Not wanting to do this again I replaced the bushing with an oilite bushing fit into the rod assembly without the rubber outside. This has worked very well for me. I was wondering how many others have had similar problems. I know this will not pass inspection, but for me it was a big improvement in the operation of the clutch.
Phil

[Thomas H.]

Re: 1960 Clutch rod Bushing

Timely post as just last night I took a look at the bushing in my 60 and it is showing wear. I replaced it about 2 years ago and only have about 200 miles on the car.
P7230561.jpg

[Stephen R.]

Re: 1960 Clutch rod Bushing

On my 59, I ended up putting two mini-ball bearings in the push rod (can't remember the sizes) and using the bolt. Works pretty well so far.

[Philip P.]

Re: 1960 Clutch rod Bushing

I fit an oilite bushing into the rod assembly which was cut to the length of the shank of the bolt about 9/16 inch. The bushing was placed on the engine side of the rod assembly as this put the push rod from the pedal in the straightest alignment. The fit is tight in to the rod assembly and has shown no movement. I would imagine that this has been in place for over 1000 miles of use. All other components in the clutch are in place including the "gorilla" spring, also the cluch in a LUK diaphragm type.
clutch bushing.jpg

[Larry B.]

Re: 1960 Clutch rod Bushing

I will be needing to do this job soon. Where do you get the oilite bushing?

[Philip P.]

Re: 1960 Clutch rod Bushing

Larry I bought it from Mcmaster and Carr their number 6391K511. I have an extra if you want it, send me an e-mail pkporter@q.com with your address and I will send it to you. It is 1 inch long 3/4 inch outside and 3/8 shaft size. I had to cut it to the shank size of the bolt, 9/16 I think you will need to verify that measurement.
Phil