Clutch Pedal Bushing Issue
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From: New Engand
Clutch Pedal Bushing Issue
Hi. I got some info on the clutch pedal bushings that seem to walk off the stud on the pedal assembly on mid-90s and other fords.
When the problem developed on my truck, I first changed the clutch pedal assembly bushings. Ford tough plastic. It worked for a few days and came back. I checked for firewall flex, but the clutch master cylinder was rock-steady. So I figured the bracked was weakened over time. Can't get the bracket anymore, so I had to order the whole pedal assemby. Only $113 at the dealership, which really isn't bad. What was bad was that it was the exact same design and construction of the original. That's very bad bacause Ford was aware that the issue was a significant safety issue--That stupid little plastic clip would pop off while motorists were wating at stoplights w/ the truck in gear, causing the thing to lurch forward and slam into the car in front of them not to mention any pedistrians crossing between cars). The bastards. Why anyone isn't in jail for this I don't know.
Anyway, the problem persisted, so I visited my machine shop. They said a heim/ball joint can be installed at all the pivot points, making the system "bullet proof" (his words). But he told me to first try a GM bushing. They pretty much have the same setup, but their retaining clip is two pieces, and it's supposedly more reliable. A hole must be drilled on the stud where the master cylinder rod attaches, and a key installed. I will be going to the local GM dealer to check it out. I will keep you posted.
When the problem developed on my truck, I first changed the clutch pedal assembly bushings. Ford tough plastic. It worked for a few days and came back. I checked for firewall flex, but the clutch master cylinder was rock-steady. So I figured the bracked was weakened over time. Can't get the bracket anymore, so I had to order the whole pedal assemby. Only $113 at the dealership, which really isn't bad. What was bad was that it was the exact same design and construction of the original. That's very bad bacause Ford was aware that the issue was a significant safety issue--That stupid little plastic clip would pop off while motorists were wating at stoplights w/ the truck in gear, causing the thing to lurch forward and slam into the car in front of them not to mention any pedistrians crossing between cars). The bastards. Why anyone isn't in jail for this I don't know.
Anyway, the problem persisted, so I visited my machine shop. They said a heim/ball joint can be installed at all the pivot points, making the system "bullet proof" (his words). But he told me to first try a GM bushing. They pretty much have the same setup, but their retaining clip is two pieces, and it's supposedly more reliable. A hole must be drilled on the stud where the master cylinder rod attaches, and a key installed. I will be going to the local GM dealer to check it out. I will keep you posted.
