1969 GT350 Z bar clutch linkage adjustments

[Dan353]

Im not sure if my Z bar is bent.   Does anyone know if someone makes a stronger Z bar or a way to reinforce one so it doesn't bend?  I have to almost push the pedal through the floor to get the clutch to engage so I can shift into gear. I used the procedure in the shop manual but my pedal always has to be pushed all the way to the floor to shift.  Is there a way to adjust the lower rod to make it disengage closer to the top of the pedal travel and still have enough free play?  Also I installed a Center force clutch and pressure plate and throw out bearing and cannot get the pedal to come all the way up without assistance. I had to put a heavier spring to the Z bar from the firewall in order to get the pedal to come full up.    Thanks in advance for any help you can give
Dan

[cj750]

Dan:

I ran into the same problem after installing a heavy duty clutch in my '69 Cougar Eliminator with a 351W, which used the same spindly Z-bar as the Mustangs and Shelbys. I welded a piece of flat strap to the back of the long upper arm to make it thicker and stronger, and also triangular gusset pieces from the pivot tube to both the upper and lower arms. Clearance is tight, but there's enough room to add significant reinforcement. I also drilled out the egg-shaped upper and lower linkage holes and installed Hurst shifter bushings, which eliminated a lot of slop.
If you'd rather not go the do-it-yourself route, Opentracker has a kit: https://opentrackerracing.com/product/roller-z-bar-clutch-rods-351w-1967-1970-mustang/
Good luck!

Jay

[427hunter]

You can weld a saddle over it or use a diaphragm clutch.

[mikeh]

That opentracker piece is slick!!

[cj750]

FWIW, these are the shifter bushings I used: https://www.summitracing.com/parts/huu-3327302
(They're also good for tightening up Ford shift linkage.)
Another worthwhile upgrade, especially with a heavier than stock clutch, are roller pedal bearings. I've installed them on two cars, and they make a noticeable difference. https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sdk-c5zz2478rbmk

[Dan353]

Thank you for all your help I'll try it
Dan