Adjusting Pedal Throw
 

Has anyone found a way to adjust the throw on the pedals? Namely the clutch pedal. I'd like to shorten it up just a bit for my own tastes. I'm going to take a look at it but I have honestly no idea what to look for.

I have read on this forum that updated clutch lines feel better. I will find out when I put in my ms flywhell and upgrade my clutch and lines. Maybe someone who has already done this will add to this thread.

Check the DIY forum. There is a clutch pedal extension thread....look for DaveT's post.

Thanks. But I was looking for a way of keeping the pedal position where it currently is and reducing the amount of travel before the clutch en/disgages.

It's a hydraulic system. That means you have 3 options.

First, a Stainless Steel clutch line will have a slight impact on throw length because there will be less deflection in the clutch line itself. However, the reduction in throw is not likely to be readily perceptible while improved "Feel" will be.

Second, you could try to fab up a different ratio master/slave cylinder combination, but that would be a significant project, and without adding a mechanical stop could overpressurize the slave causing all sorts of issues.

Third would be to move either the pivot point, or attach point for the Master piston and clutch lever arm.

Remember, however, that reducing the throw means more effort will be required. Sure it would be great to depress the clutch with flick of your ankle, but the force necessary, especially if you wind up upgrading your pressure plate, could easily exceed what your ankle is capable of providing on its own. Those are your only possible options though. At least its not a mechanical linkage. Then your only choice would be moving the attach or pivot points though you wouldn't risk overpressurizing the slave cylinder either. With my reassembled ankle, I find the clutch quite comfortable as is.

Good info. Thanks, D. The third point reminded me of the inescapability of physical mechanics. I'd avoice the second point like the plague since I've never mucked with hydrauolic systems before. The first point seems like the best avenue. I've read a bit about braided steel clutch lines on the board. Not sure how difficult a project it'd be since I've never worked on the clutch or transmission before.

The only real issue I see with the SS clutch line is that the back of the engine is stuffed way back under the firewall. I haven't looked on my 8, but in my FC it's pretty easy to get to the clutch line. You just need to be sure to catch all the fluid (it's brake fluid and will eat your paint) and bleed the system properly when your done. It wont provide much improvement in pedal THROW but will make for crisper FEEL.

Right. And I'm sure proper bleeding and filling are also important so you don't leave air in the lines. From my limited understanding of hydraulics I seem to recall that making this mistake would make the feel totally sloppy.