JEEP CLUTCH LINKAGE
Jeep has used both hydraulic and mechanical clutch linkages over the years. When doing an engine conversion, it is not uncommon to have clutch linkage changes. Many of these stock linkages can be retained with only a few modifications. However, if you would like to improve you clutch linkage, we offer many upgrades from these stock linkages.
Jeeps 1941-1971 - These Jeeps use a torque tube that pivots off the stock transfer case. The clutch pedal & bellhousing arm use rods that connected to this torque tube. The design was more than adequate for the small 4 cylinder Jeep vehicles. On V6 & V8 conversions that are equipped with heavier clutches, a greater mechanical advantage is required. We offer a new assembly that removes the torque tube & rods and replaces them with a sprocket and chain. This controller utilizes the stock pedal and clutch arm. It can be easily installed and offers a great mechanical advantage on most vehicle whether stock or converted. 716640. This kit will not work on stock 4 cylinder Jeep bellhousings.
If the original linkage is going to be retained on a new engine conversion, the only modifications will be to lengthen or shorten the corresponding linkage rods. If the transfer case is going to be offset towards the driver's side, the torque tube will also need to be modified accordingly. The torque tube mounting on the inside of the frame rail can be moved to match the new transfer case location by simply drilling two new mounting holes on the frame rail. If additional leverage is required, the stock Jeep torque tube can be modified by lengthening the control tabs. These control tabs generate the mechanical leverage between the clutch pedal and clutch release arm. If these tabs are lengthened for a new pivot location, then the mechanical advantage will become greater.
Jeeps 1970-1972 (Cable linkage) - This linkage was only used by Jeep for a short time. With the introduction of the 304 V8 engine, Jeep changed the clutch control linkage to a cable-operated system. The cable came directly from underneath the dash, through the floorboard and wrapped around to the clutch release lever. This linkage proved to be very inadequate. We’ve never manufactured an upgrade linkage kit to replace this type of linkage, but it can be retained when doing a conversion. You must make sure that the radius in the bends of the cable are kept as large as possible. The large bends will provide for a smoother clutch control.
Jeeps 1941-1972 (Hydraulic linkage) - Although these year Jeeps never came with this type of linkage, we have designed a new dual pedal and master cylinder assembly to upgrade your vehicle to a hydraulic linkage. These components cannot be used on vehicles with disc brakes.
716117 - Dual Swing Pedals
716116 - Slave Cylinder Kit with steel braided hose Slave Cylinder Kit 716116
716118 - Dual Master Cylinder
716287 - Slave Cylinder Bracket (GM block only)
Jeeps 1972-1986 (Mechanical) - These Jeeps use the same type of clutch torque tube as the earlier models, except the torque tube pivots off the bellhousing instead of the transfer case. This design consisted of a long rod that extended from the pedal mechanism underneath the dash, through the firewall and connected directly to a clutch torque tube. This linkage uses a ball design pivot bracket that bolts to the stock bellhousing. The clutch torque tube was supported between a pivot point on the bellhousing and a bracket on the firewall. This assembly can be retained on most conversions with very little modifications. Stock Jeep Clutch Tube Mechanical Assy with 716638
When using one of our Chevy conversion bellhousings, the stock bracket can be retained. If you are using a GM bellhousing, we offer 716638 which will provide you with an adjustable pivot location on the Chevy bellhousing. This bracket kit is furnished with a male ball stud and multiple hole location that permits the use of all the original Jeep clutch linkage components. This multiple hole location will provide positioning for various engine locations. The kit also includes new nylon bushings to replace the original Jeep nylon bushings. Depending on which bellhousing is being used, the push rod that extends from the clutch torque tube to the clutch release lever will need possible modifications.
One of the biggest problems with the stock Jeep clutch linkage is its reliability on the trail. Most Jeep owners have either experienced or seen the stock linkage fall apart when a vehicle is tweaked or twisted while 4-wheeling. The linkage has too many pivoting and non-secured points and, when put under stress, they tend to come undone.
We offer an upgrade kit for your clutch linkage. This chain-operated clutch linkage kit, 716639, connects to the original push rod that extends out of the firewall and mounts to the stock Jeep driver’s side body mount. This kit also uses a sprocket & chain that parallels the inside of the frame rail. Unlike the stock linkage pushing the release lever, this chain controller uses a pulling motion. On serious offroad use, the chain linkage will allow for twisting of the frame and the torque of the engine. The chain control linkage is solidly mounted to all components of the clutch linkage. This kit will not work with inside-the-frame rail exhaust. 716639 Clutch Linkage Installed
