C2 65-66 Clutch Cross Shaft Differences

[John L.]

Is there really any difference between the 65-66 big block and small block clutch cross shafts. Long Island and other parts houses call for separate cross shafts however they look an awful lot alike. From what I have gathered from others, they are both 11 inches long.

[Wayne M.]

Re: C2 65-66 Clutch Cross Shaft Differences

John -- There MUST be some differences, however minor. Otherwise there wouldn't be 3 different X-shaft GM part #'s. [3832857 '63-'66 1st design, exc. 396,427] [3872962 '65-66 396, 427, 1st design] [3888279 '66-67 2nd design].

After a quick glance at both my '65 327 and 396, it appears the differences are only in the angle of the arms welded to the tube; early 327 shafts that use the longer lever-to-clutch fork rod have a lower lever that is about 30 degrees forward of a vertical opposed upper (clutch pedal rod) lever, whereas the BB and later SB's have a lower lever that is only about 15 degrees forward. Think the later change is for clearance of the BB exhaust manifold flange, as well as other mechancial moment/force advantages.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 65-66 Clutch Cross Shaft Differences

John and Wayne----

The difference in the angular relationships between the lever arms is the only difference between the cross shafts.