Got the motor in (see previous post) and was all excited to install the bell and tranny. Not so much...yet. Two issues right now.
Issue 1: Fork ball stud. I bought a new one at a parts store. Only one P/N came up in the guy's search. It's 1/8" longer (1 1/2") than the one I took out (1 3/8"). Doesn't sound too good, right? These things are pretty important for proper clutch operation, I'd guess. BUT, I think I could be OK with this one. After some internet sleuthing I found that the standard measurement from the tip of the ball to the engine block mounting flange of the bell housing is 4.75" - which is almost exactly what the new one produces. Also, Corvette Central's website leads me to a 1 1/2" stud, it says to use a different P/N (1 3/8") for '66 - '75. (I have a '76). Could the one in there have been incorrect? Clutch worked OK before, but it was very hard to engage reverse sometimes, occasionally even had to shut off engine. Maybe this new stud will allow a little more throw.
Issue 2: One of the ends of the spring clip that secure the fork to the ball stud broke off.
I'm assuming this will need to be replaced??? Also assuming that this is a catalog order and not something I can get from a local parts store? Corvette Central has a replacement spring clip, but the old rivet would need to be drilled out and the new one riveted back in place? I'm willing to do that if it would work. ($7 vs. $60 or $70 for a whole new fork). Thoughts? Getting anxious to get all this stuff back together!! Rear of engine is supported by a jack now, too.
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1976 Silver/Firethorn. L48, 4spd. Original 2 bolt, vortec heads, 9.4:1 CR, Speed Pro Cam: 224/224@0.050, 112 LSA, Eagle Steel Crank.