67 clutch parts correct? - Joe Lucia

[Timothy B.]

I figured I would ask the experts which parts of my clutch setup might be contributing to my on-going adjustment problem. I am at the extreme end of the adjustment of the clutch linkage. If I adjust the linkage as the service manual suggests, the clutch will just barely disengage at the floor. I would like to confirm that I have the right parts installed. I went back to my GM parts purchase receipt from 1986 when I last had the clutch apart and found the following:

Fork - 3887177
Stud - 3887159
Bearing - 908244
Plate - 458629

I have confirmed that I have the correct lower link rod in place (8+ inches), and best I can tell I have the original and correct crossarm. Rod connected directly to the clutch pedal is original and in good shape.

On a side note, the AIM refers to 1.5 inches of free play at the pedal. Wow that seems like allot! To get my clutch to work even close to correctly I end up with at most 1/2" free play. I wonder where the disengagement point is SUPPOSED to be after following GMs adjustment procedure?

Suggestions?

[Joe L.]

Re: 67 clutch parts correct? - Joe Lucia

Tim------

You have all the correct parts----at least, all the ones that you described.

The problem that you have experienced is a VERY common problem with Corvettes. I've experienced it with my 69 from the very beginning. If you adjust the clutch so that you have the specified free-play, then you will end up with incomplete disengagement at full pedal deflection.

The only thing that I've been able to do is to adjust the clutch so that there is "some" free-play. If you can get 1/2", you're doing good. Then, check to be sure that you have complete disengagment with the pedal at full deflection. I don't think that you'll be able to do any better.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 67 clutch parts correct? - Joe Lucia

Thanks Joe! Sounds like I'm doing the best I can with the freeplay then. I noticed in a few earlier posts on the subject that you described a couple of different ball studs, with the one I have listed above being 1 3/8" length and that it is now discontinued and replaced with a 1 1/2" version. Would switching to the longer stud the next time I have the transmission out result in some more adjustment range for the linkage? Seems to me like it would. Thanks for your information - you are quite a resource to this forum!

[Jim T.]

Re: 67 clutch parts correct? - Joe Lucia

Tim this may not be your problem. With another car of mine I would have the complete release problem. Was told when I bought the car it had a new clutch. I fixed the problem with a new pressure plate. The presssure plate metal had worn at the throwout bearing contact area. The car shifted like a dream with a new one.