[69coupe]

Hi guys,

I need some advice ...

I'm switching my 69 351 / FMX to a toploader and was wondering what your recommendations would be with respect to the best clutch actuation set-up.

I have the correct clutch and brake pedals, transmission, bellhousing, and flywheel but have not acquired any clutch linkage pieces yet.

Any thoughts on cable or hydraulic options and what is available for a 69 with a 351 as opposed to the stock mechanical system?

Thanks ... appreciate any insights and guidance you can give me.

[Jeff65]

The mechanical linkage is not bad when in good condition and properly adjusted. Real hard driving puts stress on this linkage and on motor mounts. You hear about clutch linkage problems but they all but disappear with good motor mounts (Lakewood, TCP, etc.). On a street driven occasionally raced there is no real problem with stock clutch linkage.

Cable clutch mechanisms overcome motor mount problems since it doesn't hang on the engine at all. Cable clutches have their problems too, so there are trade offs.

Hydraulic clutches overcome motor mount problems for the same reason as above. Hydraulics are messy and not worth the bother on a stock bodied car. They're great for street rods with zero clearance problems and other street rod issues. Remember Detroit abandoned hydraulic clutches in favor of mechanical ones.

[69coupe]

Originally Posted by Jeff65

The mechanical linkage is not bad when in good condition and properly adjusted. Real hard driving puts stress on this linkage and on motor mounts. You hear about clutch linkage problems but they all but disappear with good motor mounts (Lakewood, TCP, etc.). On a street driven occasionally raced there is no real problem with stock clutch linkage.

Cable clutch mechanisms overcome motor mount problems since it doesn't hang on the engine at all. Cable clutches have their problems too, so there are trade offs.

Hydraulic clutches overcome motor mount problems for the same reason as above. Hydraulics are messy and not worth the bother on a stock bodied car. They're great for street rods with zero clearance problems and other street rod issues. Remember Detroit abandoned hydraulic clutches in favor of mechanical ones.

Thanks for the information Jeff ... I know I definitely have engine mount work on my list of things to do.