C1 Clutch Return spring

[Dennis A.]

After reviewing several very nice C1 vettes at a recent car show, I noticed that many of them had removed the (monster) clutch return spring. Is this a good idea and where & how do they install a spring to insure proper return?

[Mike M.]

Re: C1 Clutch Return spring

Bad idea, especially if they are using a diaphram pressure plate and tweaking the 283 or 327 to 6K plus RPM. These pressure plates have been known to fail to release when clutch pedal left out even with the hellishly difficult to install clutch return spring is in place. I wouldn't want my ankle within grenade distance of such a clutch assembly if the assembly explodes. Usually hurts. mike

[Joe Pennington]

Re: C1 Clutch Return spring

Good Idea to remove the spring. The spring serves two functions. When the clutch pedal is released, the spring is over center and serves to pull the clutch pedal agaist the bumber(approx 3/4" of travel). When depressing the clutch pedal, once the pedal travels the first approx 3/4", the spring goes over center and then operates to help pull the pedal to the floor agaist the clutch pressure plate. This reduces the amount of force need to depress the clutch pedal. If you install a diaphram clutch, which does not require near the force to operate, instead of the orginal design Borg & Beck style clutch, the spring in question will then keep the diaphram clutch from being able to release as the spring is holding the pedal to the floor. Even if you have the B&B style cluch, you do not have to use the heavy over center spring. Just add a weak clutch return spring to the clutch pedal under the dash. But, you had better have a strong left leg, as the increased force required will take it's toll.

[John H.]

Re: C1 Clutch Return spring

I removed the "Godzilla Spring" and its hokey over-center-adjuster bracket from my '57 when I restored it years ago, and fabricated my own offset bracket that attached to the same two holes; found a suitable spring (storm door variety, hardware store, painted it black), that hooked over the existing "tab" bracket on the frame rail at the bottom and to my fabricated offset upper bracket, which served solely as a pedal return spring, to hold the pedal up against the bumper. Put a LuK "Vintage Replacement" bent-finger diaphragm clutch in it, and had thousands of miles of happy motoring with smooth engagement, great grip, and low pedal pressure without that damn spring.