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I am trying to convert to a hydraulic clutch for my T-10, my knees need a easier pedal to push. All the kits are for T-5 or T-56 transmissions. The remote type setup would be preferred so I can keep my original bell-housing
The clutch pedal/z bar and linkage is the same for the Saginaw and t10 as well as a mechanically actuated t5. The t5 obviously has a different bellhousing than the 4 speeds. There are two different leverage settings on the z bar linkage. I think the v8s all used the further out position. I would check that part. It's where the adjuster rod attaches to the z bar.
a hydraulic swap is easy but time consuming(ish). I used the American powertrain 82-92 kit. It worked awesome w my T56 swap. They make one that will work w a 4 speed and a t5 also.
the 82-83 cars need reinforcement at the firewall when switching to a hydraulic setup. You'll also need a 84-92 clutch/brake pedal setup.
if you have any questions let me know. I've done the swap twice and have been really pleased w the outcome.
If you want to keep the T-10 4-speed transmission it may be easier to use the stock '84-'92 hydraulic clutch setup and aftermarket bellhousing.
The Lakewood steel hydraulic clutch bellhousing for 3rd-gens has bolt holes for both the Saginaw/BW T-10 and tilted BW T5.
I didn't even think about that dual drilled bell. The only issues w those bell housings is the ground clearance. The one for my t56 is a little too low but my car is lowered a little. This may be a good choice.
I know the kits from American powertrain will work for the 4 speeds and you can use the stock bell. I know the OP wants an easier clutch, I don't know how much easier the stock hydros are vs the mechanical. The American powertrain kit u used I'm using w a dual disk. It has slightly less pedal effort than the mechanical but not a ton less. I haven't driven a stock hydro setup in years so I can't compare.
I was looking at this one, which should be fine with my existing bell housing since it is a remote type. Sure it will be a challenge to install, but will be worth it. I will make an aluminum plate to stiffen up the firewall.
That's the one. It's pretty easy. Just measure and take your time measuring and you'll be cool. I used a ram clutch pedal height adjuster and put the bleeder after it. It's all mounted up in the fire wall. This way I didn't have to get under the car to bleed the clutch. I also used a speed bleeder so I could do it alone.
Last edited by Firechicken82; 12-28-2023 at 03:29 PM.
Locate used 84-86? third gen pedals. They should bolt up perfect. The clutch pedal is more than likely drilled for the mechanical pushrod, and they should accept your existing switches. You could bolt them up, and work towards the rest of the swap.
The mechanical clutch won't work w hydraulic pedals. The mount for the hydraulics interferes w the linkage. I don't think the hole is there either. It's kind of an all in situation.
12-28-2023, 10:40 AM
