Clutch linkage woes

[moranda]

So my clutch linkage has failed yet again. This plastic piece that goes at the end of the bell crank onto the piviot ball is the worst thing ever designed. Is there something better that i can use so this wont happen again? this linkage set is fairly new. Any help is greatly appreciated

 

[caveman]

Some of the Fords from the 50s had the same set up and i remember seeing some of them with brass. I don't know where they come from and have no idea of where anybody could get them but they must be out there somewhere.

 

[AZ75CJ5]

Just replaced mine also. Platic piece on that same side was broke. Kit cost me like $10from 4 wheel parts.

 

[Dan86CJ7]

i use alot of grease, the 4" lift really wears out one side of the bushing. i started carrying a spare set in the truck. very simple fix on the road side and off you go or power shift her home.

 

[Turbogus]

I put one of these in 'BB' early on and I've had no issues since

Clutch Linkage,Jeep CJ5,Jeep,CJ5

 

[PaRenegade]

Two questions. Are you putting the retainer clips in place? Is the bellcrank level?

 

[moranda]

I did not install the bell crank/linkage kit last time. To my knowledge the retaining clips were in place and yes the bell cranck is level...... no body lift. AZ75CJ5 could you post a link of the kit you got? Guys, thanks for all your help

 

[Dan86CJ7]

my suspension lift effects mine? dont know if you have any lift?

 

[moranda]

As of right now no suspension lift..... I do have a 4" lift not installed that I will slap on once a get a few more things for it. Also is there a better system than this? I have heard of people going to a hydraulic clutch not sure I want to do that because i might swap the tranny in the future.

 

[AZ75CJ5]

Here is link to kit: Crown Automotive Part 3167067K - Clutch Pivot Repair Kit - Fits 1972 to 1986 CJ - 4 Wheel Parts

 

[Dan86CJ7]

this is the kit i keep in mine and it only seems to be one every time, seem to last 2 yrs or so, I think anything that retains the bushings/bellcrank is only gonna lead to the same.. been looking for something but no luck, which is why i just carry spares

 

[Hedgehog]

Here's something to try. Turn your bell crank around. Mine was backwards, the arms are different. One is longer, one has a bend in it.

 

[Neuner]

I have heard of people going to a hydraulic clutch not sure I want to do that because i might swap the tranny in the future.

Been investigating this myself. Looks like the best/easiest route is to get the Novak Clutch Conversion Slave with mounting bracket. Says it fits AMC bellhousings so good chance your covered if you do a swap. Problem may be the cost at $176+. I look to do this but I'll probably wait until winter when I'm not driving it as much.

 

[moranda]

With flipping the bellcrank around which one goes to what? does the longer one go to the Transmission ?

 

[Hedgehog]

I honestly don't remember. With the bell crank backwards the grease fitting was in the wrong position to the point of hitting the frame forcing it to pop off/out. The illustrations you can find in your service manuals show the proper placement. I found that mine was on backwards to clear the bell housing bracket, which turned out to be some PO modification. The stock bracket cleared up the problem for me.

 

[Petescj]

I really wanted to try this set up when I had a manual Cj. Set ups for 72-75 and 76-86.

SpeedDirect - Jeep CJ 72-86=

 

[JR74CJ5]

There are 3 other options.

1) Hydraulic - Really like this conversion. Little more involved than the others, but worth it in my opinion. You said you don't want to yet because you may be swapping Transmission . Only thing you will have to change if you do is the slave mounting bracket (possibly) if it will not re-align with the new bell-housing. Possibly the rod between the slave and clutch fork would need to be adapted or replaced as well, but both are easy with fab skills.

2) there is always the cable system. This is less intrusive, but the cable can become very stiff over time, keeping it lubed will help, but the hydraulic is much smoother.

3) there is a advanced adapters kit with a chain and gear system i've seen one of our members did a write up on it somewhere... I will try to find it and post it.

I got tired of the stock system and went with Hydraulic.

 

[mtnwhlr]

I get my plastic bushings from the dealer the oem ones seem to hold up better.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

The longer tab of the bellcrank, goes to the clutch pedal rod..
LG

 

[Turbogus]

I really wanted to try this set up when I had a manual Cj. Set ups for 72-75 and 76-86.

SpeedDirect - Jeep CJ 72-86=

That looks similar to the Rugged Ridge kit I mentioned earlier
Clutch Linkage,Jeep CJ5,Jeep,CJ5