74 clutch relay

[Mike H.]

This is for a friend with a 1974.He is having problems with a clutch relay. He states that the AC Delco clutch relay on the firewall does not make contact when he engages the clutch. 1) where can he get a replacement? 2) can he bypass or over-ride? Any info at all on the relay will be helpful.

[Joe L.]

Re: 74 clutch relay

Mike-----

There is no relay that I am aware of which is related to clutch operation on the firewall. However, there is a neutral-saftey start switch. This switch is connected to the clutch pedal shaft by a small diameter rod. This switch ensures that the engine cnnot be started unless the clutch pedal is depressed. It is a safety feature and, in my opinion, it's a very important one.

The switch and rod are GM-discontinued. However, one may be able to remove the switch and repair it. It was never designed to be serviced, but it's a simple device and repair may be possible. Theoretically, the switch can be removed from the circuit by removing the wiring connector attached to it and jumping the 2 wires. This would make for a direct connection with no switch. Of course, there would be no neutral start protection, either. Personally, I would consider removing the switch from the circuit to be a temporary thing.