[sixdfour]

converting 64 malibu convertible pwgld to 4spd: where does upper clutch rod go through firewall? I see where existing brake pedal linkage/boot goes through firewall to master cylinder, but don't see obvious place through which clutch pedal linkage goes through. Do I need to cut through firewall to allow this and if so, where please. welded z-bar bracket to outside frame but just cant figure where clutch rod goes through. Do I need to remove steering column? Any help greatly appreciated!!

 

[Berto]

I might be able to help a bit. took a picture or two for you. mine is a 67 and was 3 on the tree but still went through the firewall. There is a plate that bolts to the firewall under the clutch pedal. yours if probably similar.

 

[Philip]

Another view from the outside.

 

[sixdfour]

Mine does not have that plate...guess because it's originally automatic. It only has the steering column hole. I guess I'm gonna have to remove the steering column and cut out that hole. Phillip, would you be able to give me the dimensions of the hole please? Thanks!

 

[Philip]

Unfortunately no, the plate was sold years ago. As you see in the photos the opening is not round and it is not critical it be in exactly the same place as the factory. Using the boot, the photos and the existing holes around the location in your plate the area should be able to be determined.

 

[sixdfour]

Right! Thanks very much for your time!!!

 

[g-man65]

You'll need a dremel & several small cutting wheels, as you will break a few, eye goggles, contortionist certificate......the clutch rod /firewall rubber boot will help you with the shape/size...it's reproduced & you need it....i just made a sheet metal collar to attach it....g.

 

[sixdfour]

I'm gonna use the boot as a template...scribe it, then cut about 1/8" inside the outline. The boot is angled, but it seems the clutch rod will be perpindicular to the firewall...why's that?

 

[Philip]

The boot is angled, but it seems the clutch rod will be perpindicular to the firewall...why's that?

The one in my photo sat out in the desert without the rod in it. It was probably due to heat and gravity.

 

[sixdfour]

The boot I have is angled. Is it necessary to remove the steering column?

 

[tedixon]

Yes. Remove the steering column by unbolting the plate from the firewall and the end of the column from the rag joint. Then remove the plate and go to work on it. Cutting an irregular hole while under the dash would be tough.

 

[g-man65]

A little tricky, but totally doable, unless your not very flexible.....no need to remove the steering column....look at Berto's pictures again, you just need to cut that hole in the plate, the metal is thin,the opening already exists in the firewall behind the plate you will be cutting, yes, the boot is slightly angled downward....don't over-think it....update,....dang, a ROUND hole.....why didn't i think of that, good idea!!!....g.

 

[cobaltchev67]

Drilling a round hole in the plate while the plate is still installed with a hole saw would be much easier than trying to cut that irregular shaped one and it will work just the same. I drilled mine while the column and plate were still attached to each other but out of the car. No problems having a round hole, the rubber boot will flex to accomodate. You will need a boot retainer plate though, that's reproduced also.