how to make model A clutch pedal push down easier for us that have bad legs and knees

[modelamann]

what modifications can be done to make the clutch pedal push down easier . And has anyone ever tried to replace clutch linkage with hydraulics to make it push down the pedal easier . I do not think hydraulics will fit but maybe someone out there has tried it .

[Keith True]

There is a longer clutch arm you can buy from the vendors.Makes quite a difference too.Not real expensive.

[nkaminar]

I have the Ford V8 clutch in my car and it is easier. Might not be easy enough depending on your physical condition.

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[Y-Blockhead]

I have heard of modern diaphragm pressure plate being used. I have the longer clutch arm that Keith mentioned. Works for me... so far.

[katy]

https://www.musclecarsandclassics.ca...t5eZfP_FI0zHZD

https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A7510WA.htm

[midgetracer]

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I have a friend that takes out half of the springs in the pressure plate and he says that it makes it much easier to depress the clutch and it does not slip even on steep hills.

[Joe K]

I have the Ford V8 clutch in my car and it is easier. Might not be easy enough depending on your physical condition.

The later Ford clutches have "counterweights" that take advantage of centrifugal force to release the clutch.

Snyders to the rescue...

LIGHTENED FLYWHEEL WITH V8 CLUTCH
Part # A-6375-V8 | Model Year 28-31

A little pricey at $645 plus shipping. Probably $750 delivered.

They say they need a "core" exchange. Not sure if they're looking for a Model A core or a V8 Core. Think more shipping...

Joe K

[Fullraceflathead]

With the stock Model A producing around 127' lbs of torque You would think the stock pressure plate was way overkill. You would think maybe having a capacity of 200’ lbs of torque holding ability would be more than enough and provide a very soft clutch pedal.
Modern diaphragm pressure plates typically have a much softer clutch pedal load by design.
I would think you could actually remove every other spring on the factory pressure plate and still have adequate holding ability with a stock engine of course, and in addition to using the longer arm on the clutch release shaft.
In reality the clutch only needs to hold 127 foot pounds of torque and 40 hp so with a stock Model A engine if you double that in capacity for the clutch pressure plate it really doesn’t need to have that much spring pressure at all.
The current pressure plates are way over capacity to cover higher powered applications in my opinion.

[Bill Z]

Originally Posted by modelamann

what modifications can be done to make the clutch pedal push down easier . And has anyone ever tried to replace clutch linkage with hydraulics to make it push down the pedal easier . I do not think hydraulics will fit but maybe someone out there has tried it .

I had my lightened V-8 clutch flywheel redrilled for a 1986 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe diaphragm pressure plate. It still uses the stock Model A clutch disc and throw-out bearing. I can easily use three fingers to depress the pedal. Clutch engagement is very smooth and progressive.

[Fullraceflathead]

That's a perfect example of how nice a diaphragm pressure plate actually operates and functions with only moderate pressure.

[Bob Bidonde]

I am 83 & my Victoria has a V8 clutch that is easier to work than the stock clutch. Also, there are 2 options for longer clutch arms.

[ModelA29]

Originally Posted by Joe K

The later Ford clutches have "counterweights" that take advantage of centrifugal force to release the clutch.

No - clutch counterweights increase clamping force by using centrifugal force to push the pressure plate harder against the clutch disc as RPM increases.

[katy]

Originally Posted by ModelA29

No - clutch counterweights increase clamping force by using centrifugal force to push the pressure plate harder against the clutch disc as RPM increases.

Ditto