Converting a Thumping Big V8 to Cable Clutch using 2CV Parts

[Geoff Ryall-Harvey]

Just started to convert the clutch in my Modified to cable operation - it was rod operated but even if I could get the parts here in the UK, it wouldn't work without major alterations. I thought about a hydraulic clutch but that sounds tricky to get right when you're fabricating from scratch. Hydraulic throw out bearings sound like nothing but trouble. However, I've got plenty of cable clutch bits and know how they work so I'm giving it a go.

The pedals are suspended and the key part is a clutch cable housing that will take the cable through the firewall and allow it to be adjusted. This was found, very handily, on a 1980's Citroen 2CV firewall....



I cut it out using a cold chisel, tidied it up and if fits perfectly - the curve at the bottom matches the "shelf" on the Model T firewall and locates it exactly where it needs to be.



A 2CV clutch cable looks the right length but I've get a box of GM clutch cables of various different types so that I can mix and match. Pedal end is sorted and works fine together, the pedal ratio is 7 to 1 with 1.5" of pull on the cable - so about perfect.

Next stage is to make a bracket to go on the gearbox for the other end of the cable. May use a bellcrank to get a better cable line.

There's an excellent thread by DRuss32 that gives some ideas on bracketry...