How to adjust the clutch on a 1967 Shelby GT500?

Owning a 1967 Shelby GT500 is a thrilling experience, but as with any classic car, mechanical issues can arise. One common problem owners may encounter is an improperly adjusted clutch. This can manifest as difficulty shifting gears, clutch slippage, or a clutch pedal that feels too loose or too tight. Fortunately, with some mechanical know-how, you can adjust the clutch yourself. Here is how to solve this issue:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools on hand:

• Jack and jack stands (for safety)
• Wrenches: 1/2-inch and 9/16-inch
• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Protective gloves

Step 2: Safety First
Park the Shelby GT500 on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Lift the front of the car using a jack and secure it with jack stands to ensure stability.

Step 3: Locate the Clutch Linkage

• Slide under the car and locate the clutch linkage. You’ll find this running from the clutch pedal inside the car, through the firewall, and down to the clutch fork on the transmission.
• The clutch linkage typically consists of rods and pivot points. Look for a threaded rod with an adjustable nut; this is what you’ll be working on.

Step 4: Loosen the Locknut

• Put on your protective gloves.
• Using the 1/2-inch wrench, locate the locknut on the threaded rod of the clutch linkage.
• Loosen the locknut by turning it counterclockwise. This will allow you to make adjustments to the clutch pedal play.

Step 5: Adjust the Clutch Pedal Free Play

• With the locknut loosened, use the 9/16-inch wrench to turn the adjustment nut on the threaded rod.
• To increase clutch pedal free play (if the pedal feels too tight), turn the adjustment nut counterclockwise.
• To decrease clutch pedal free play (if the pedal feels too loose), turn the adjustment nut clockwise.
• Aim for about 1 inch of free play at the clutch pedal. This means that when you press the clutch pedal by hand, it should travel about 1 inch before you feel resistance.

Step 6: Tighten the Locknut

• Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, hold the adjustment nut in place with the 9/16-inch wrench.
• Tighten the locknut against the adjustment nut by turning it clockwise with the 1/2-inch wrench.

Step 7: Test the Clutch Pedal

• Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
• Get into the driver’s seat and slowly press the clutch pedal to ensure it feels right.
• Test the gear shifting to confirm that the clutch is engaging and disengaging properly.

Step 8: Make Final Adjustments

• If the clutch still doesn’t feel correct, you may need to repeat the process, adjusting the free play until the clutch operation is smooth.

Maintaining the proper clutch adjustment on your 1967 Shelby GT500 ensures smoother shifting and prolongs the life of your transmission. Following these steps will help you address any clutch adjustment issues and keep your classic muscle car running perfectly.