Just joined? Please introduce yourself.
Page 1 of 7 123 ... LastLast
Results 1 to 10 of 62

Thread: 55 Auto to Manual Conversion

Hybrid View

Previous Post Previous Post   Next Post Next Post
  1. #1
    Registered Member ykf7b0's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2020

    Member #:4504
    Location
    Tennessee
    Posts
    95

    55 Auto to Manual Conversion

    I am trying to source clutch linkage parts for my 55 and I want to remove the th350 and install a 4 speed manual. My car already has the manual pedal assembly and the shaft on the frame for the z bar. Are the z bars the same for all Chevy’s or are they year/body style specific? I have an opportunity to buy a complete set up from a 71 Chevelle. Can I use it?
    Jesus is my pilot!

  2. #2
    Registered Member
    Join Date
    May 2012

    Member #:625
    Posts
    3,409
    They are model specific, even different between 55 and 57, I would use all 57 stuff if possible.

  3. #3
    Registered Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2012

    Member #:571
    Posts
    4,671
    Chevelle parts won't work.

    The clutch linkage parts are different for each year, 55-57. Far as I know only the 57 stuff has the whole set reproduced.

    The part of the 55-56 sets that's not reproduced is the clutch fork and the linkage rod that goes from the z-bar to the clutch fork. However you can use the 57 clutch fork and lower linkage rod with the 55 or 56 z-bar. The 57 fork is a better design anyway. East Coast Chevy in PA sells the parts.
    Last edited by Rick_L; 12-24-2020 at 11:26 AM.

  4. #4
    Registered Member ykf7b0's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2020

    Member #:4504
    Location
    Tennessee
    Posts
    95
    Thanks to you both!!! Merry Christmas!!!!

  5. #5
    Registered Member
    Join Date
    Jun 2015

    Member #:2579
    Posts
    179
    Here's another suggestion to buy new 57 clutch linkage and be done with it

  6. #6
    Registered Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2012

    Member #:571
    Posts
    4,671
    The problem with using a 57 z-bar in a 55-56 car is the pivot ball is larger on a 57, so a 57 z-bar will have slop on the smaller 55-56 pivot ball unless you make a bushing or change the pivot ball.

  7. #7
    Registered Member ykf7b0's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2020

    Member #:4504
    Location
    Tennessee
    Posts
    95
    Quote Originally Posted by Rustaddict View Post
    Here's another suggestion to buy new 57 clutch linkage and be done with it
    Quote Originally Posted by Rick_L View Post
    The problem with using a 57 z-bar in a 55-56 car is the pivot ball is larger on a 57, so a 57 z-bar will have slop on the smaller 55-56 pivot ball unless you make a bushing or change the pivot ball.
    Ok, So I need a 57 clutch linkage to clear the oil filter on my 1975 350 engine but I need to either make a bushing for my 1955 5/8 shaft for better fitment on a 1957 3/4 z-bar or change the pivot. Has anyone here made a bushing or changed the pivot?
    Jesus is my pilot!

  8. #8
    Registered Member
    Join Date
    May 2012

    Member #:625
    Posts
    3,409
    The bell crank or Z bar on my 55 had to have the inner bar cut off and moved out to clear the oil filter as 55 did not have one.

  9. #9
    Registered Member ykf7b0's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2020

    Member #:4504
    Location
    Tennessee
    Posts
    95
    I have just bought a Borg Warner Super T-10 four speed for my 55 but I need a shifter assembly for a bench seat. Recommendations with numbers?
    Jesus is my pilot!

  10. #10
    Registered Member Rocketman's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2017

    Member #:3454
    Location
    Rowlett (DFW), TX
    Posts
    262
    If you are going to keep the bench seat you will need the C handle made for Tri 5's. You can find some used ones on ebay. Then you will have to have the correct mounting brackets for a T-10.
    Glenn Hargrove

    USAF (66-70) Viet Nam Vet

Page 1 of 7 123 ... LastLast

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •