I know of some dirt track late models they use a hand clutch, but its for a direct drive type of transmission. I was wondering if something like this would work on a chevelle? How hard is it to take a factory automatic car and put a clutch pedal and stuff in it? No where near stock or factory for my car, so im having fun with it till I can restore it right! I'd still like to put a manual tranny in it reguardless of if it had it factory or not. Check out my video on youtube... YouTube- Broadcast Yourself.

Thanks,
Mike

why would you want a hand clutch?
it's extremely easy to install a clutch pedal in an automatic car.
you just need new brake and clutch pedals, and they hand in place of the stock brake pedal.
the new brake pedal hooks up just like the stocker.
you need to punch a hole in the firewall for the clutch linkage- my 71 Nova had a plate bolted to the firewall with 2 small screws that covered a pre cut hole, but i don't think a Chevelle has that. there is probably a dimple in the sheetmetal to mark where to punch the hole, tho.
under the hood, you need to hook up the Z bar. it just goes from a bracket bolted on the frame rail to a ball stud that screws into the side of the block.
all the parts you need can be purchased new from any of the resto places for not too much money, or maybe you can find all the stuff in a junkyard. look for a 4 door car with a 6 cylinder.

I thought maybe the hand clutch would be an easier install, Like I said, I had no Idea, thats why Im asking :)

OK, my deal on the manual tranny fell through. So thats out of the question for now. Currently I have a TH400 in the car that badly needs rebuilt. I have a fresh 700R sitting here, how compatible is that on a 72? Will the 400 Torque Converter work? Any opinions? Im pretty open to suggestion and comments...I take the good with the bad :).

If you are considering upgrading transmissions then an overdrive top gear is a very worthwhile choice.

FWIW there are a number of vendors who can set you up with all the parts you need to convert over from auto to manual transmission along with a modern 5 speed transmission.

A good old John Deere farm boy would feel right at home with a hand clutch. You won't like it. Been there on a John Deere. ;)