Gauging Interest - Billet Clutch Adjuster Mechanisms

[shopartsnw]

It has been a while since we sold out of the last of the factory new clutch adjuster mechanisms, and I know there are still people out there who need them. From my searching, there are no more new ones to be found.

I checked with our machinist about making some billet aluminum adjuster mechanisms. The kit would include the clutch quadrant and the adjuster pawl. You would need to reuse the spring. The parts would be CNC machined for a perfect drop in fit, and they would be annodized for durability. The estimated price point is about $120, but we may be able to save some money if we kicked it off with a group buy.

Is there any serious interest for these parts at this price?

Mike

 

[Storm-Chaser]

But one of the problems I recall with the pawl mechanism has been the spring. It is the second most likely failure item, the first being the plastic piece in the pawl.

Also, what are the Mustangs using for replacements, since there were similar problems with the pawl assembly design in the Mustangs?

 

[ctwrench]

I put a billet aluminum Ford Motor Sports adjustable quadrant in my '85 Mustang. I'm not sure the differences between the two. Would've been nice if Ford had used the same mechanism for both cars. Wait, engineers using the same part on two totally different platforms...never happen! That would be too much like right.

I would be interested in a billet quadrant for my SHO on a group buy!

 

[Mrhappytuzi]

sounds interesting

 

[shopartsnw]

But one of the problems I recall with the pawl mechanism has been the spring. It is the second most likely failure item, the first being the plastic piece in the pawl.

Also, what are the Mustangs using for replacements, since there were similar problems with the pawl assembly design in the Mustangs?

I have not seen many failures in person, but we did sell a lot of the adjusters until they went out of stock for good. If others can chime in, that would be great. Tell us what parts failed for you? If the quadrant never wears out or fails, maybe we can save money and just make a billet pawl? If the spring is also a weak point, we can see about a different spring.

As far as I know, people have tried, but I have not heard of any successful conversion of the Mustang parts to the SHO.

Thanks for the help.

Mike

 

[89SHOMAN666]

I'd absolutely be interested.

 

[Off Road SHO]

I'm sure the spring is something you could get from Springs-R-Us or another spring maker. I can't see Ford doing a custom spring.

Tom

 

[AREA 91]

I would definately buy one of these!!!! Mabye 2!

I really think this is a "must" for those of us with double diaphram pressure plates. I know those 4 little pawl teeth are screaming against every shift.

 

[shopartsnw]

So do you think we could live with just a new pawl to save money, or is the quadrant just as critical to you guys?

Mike

 

[AREA 91]

So do you think we could live with just a new pawl to save money, or is the quadrant just as critical to you guys?

Mike

I say go for the whole thing.

 

[89SHOMAN666]

I agree with Brian, I'd want the whole shebang.

 

[shopartsnw]

I will move forward to the next step in the design phase based on the "whole sheebang" concept.

I will keep you updated.

Mike

 

[TYSHO]

I say go for the whole thing.

I'm with this, as well.


On another note, I've had two failures with a broke spring.


Any update?

 

[shopartsnw]

We are slowly pushing forward with the design. This is a fairly complex design and there are a couple easier projects we are finishing up first.

For those people with broken springs, do you think the spring broke as a result of a broken pawl (quick snap to break the spring), or did the spring break leaving the quadrant and pawl still in good condition? I am thinking a little more failure analysis here would be good.

Mike

 

[rbruso]

I've never broken one, but each time I've adjusted either of mine it's been a 'cross your fingers, hope it works' kind of thing, usually accompanied by weird sproinging noises.

Speaking as someone who is going to be doing a clutch soon, I'd be much happier if that particular worry was off the list. I have a spare mechanism of dubious condition still bolted to my parts car, but stronger pieces would be welcome.

Does anyone know if the plastic pieces were just a cost issue, or did they make them a purposeful weak point to protect something else with the clutch mechanism?

 

[93rev2sev]

This sounds like a very cool product!

The way I see it there's no need for a group buy. $120 a copy is cheap enough that anyone that needs one will be tickled pink that it's available (and affordable) and for those that just want one, it's very reasonable. What would a replacement quadrant cost from Ford if it were available? Probably over $200 easy...

 

[1993MTXSHO]

This sounds like a very cool product!

The way I see it there's no need for a group buy. $120 a copy is cheap enough that anyone that needs one will be tickled pink that it's available (and affordable) and for those that just want one, it's very reasonable. What would a replacement quadrant cost from Ford if it were available? Probably over $200 easy...

IIRC they were 65-75 bucks when I last called a year or two ago when they were still available.

 

[shotime1994]

I would Buy one if you make them.

 

[Eric VerValin]

I wish I knew where that extra one is I have... hmmm..

 

[TYSHO]

For those people with broken springs, do you think the spring broke as a result of a broken pawl (quick snap to break the spring), or did the spring break leaving the quadrant and pawl still in good condition? I am thinking a little more failure analysis here would be good.

I think I thrown mine away but I remember one with the paw worn and one without.