Clutch Kit for '56

[Pierre J.]

[Joe L.]

Re: Clutch Kit for '56

Pierre-----

Unfortunately, the 1956 Corvette clutch was different than the 57-62. For 1956, a 10-1/2" clutch was used; for 57-62, a 10" clutch was used. Consequently, the pressure plate assembly and friction disc were different for 1956. Both components are long-since GM-discontinued and, as far as I know, are not reproduced.

The 1956 Corvette did use the same flywheel as later C1s, though. Also, 1956 and later bellhousings are, at least, functionally interchangeable. The clutch fork is also the same. So, I don't see why a 1957-62 clutch assembly won't work on a functional basis for a 1956. However, C1s are not my area of expertise, so there could be something that I'm missing here.

[Steve Junkersfeld]

Re: Clutch Kit for '56

Joe, Just a quick question - out of curiosity. My research points to the conclusion that the 56 clutch fork, although functionally the same as the later forks, is physically different and uses a different pushrod from the fork to the crossshaft lever arm. Are you aware of any part number differences in the two forks? Instead of using a pin that locks the pushrod into the outer end of the fork, I think the 56s (and maybe 55s) used a "mushroom" shaped adjusting nut that threaded onto the pushrod and set into a recess in the fork. Thanks Steve

[Joe L.]

Re: Clutch Kit for '56

Steve-----

Yes, there were differences in the original, PRODUCTION forks and push rods. 1956 originally used fork GM #3727737 and rod GM #3726733. For 1957, these changed to GM #3741460 and GM #3739045. In the later 60s, these parts became the SERVICE parts for 1956. However, both have to be replaced if one is replaced for 55-56. Also, other parts have to be replaced for 55-56 applications whenever any of the 57+ parts are used for 55-56 SERVICE.

For 1962 PRODUCTION, the fork was changed to GM #3739043. This part became the SERVICE part for all 55-62. However, it must also be used with the 3739045 rod and other parts for 55-56 applications.

[Bernard M.]

Re: Clutch Kit for '56

Joe & Steve, 1955 Chevrolet passenger cars used a unique clutch fork and push rod that was different from the 1956 Chevrolet or Corvette clutch fork and push rod. The 1955 clutch fork had a hole at the outboard end through which the threaded adjustable end of the push rod passed. A large nut with one rounded side mated the fork and a jamb nut secured it. The fork is seen in photos of the 1956 pre-production "parts buck" V8 in several places in Noland Adams' 53-62 Restoration Guide (pg 123 for example). Is anyone aware as to whether or not this style clutch fork and push rod combination was used in the 1955 Corvette?

[Joe L.]

Re: Clutch Kit for '56

Bernard-----

I don't know if the 55 Corvette used the same style clutch fork as the 55 passenger car. However, the actual parts were NOT the same. The 1955 Corvette used fork GM #3727737 and rod GM #3726573. The rod was also used for 1956 passenger cars.

The 1955 passenger car used fork GM #3713306 and rod GM #3713756.