67L78 clutch linkage

[L78Kiwi]

Hello, I hope someone can please help. I bought a clutch linkage kit for me 67L78 (this is a nut and bolt rebuild for a L78 that has not been on the road since 70).

This is an aftermarket kit. The linkage from the bottom of the belcrank to the folk appears to be too short. When I look at the factory assembly manual it shows the linkage supplied as being for an L6. In the meantime (for example) Heartbeat city shows this kit with the factory assembly manual L6 rod as being correct for all BB applications.

I have the short clutch fork and the long series throw out bearing. I just changed from the short series as it didn't have the reach. With the long series replacement it is now engaging properly but the linkage suppled is frankly flimsey and adjusted to the max to get good engagement.
At this point I am considering fabricating a sleeve (similar to that shown in the factory assembly manual for a V8) to give the linkage rod the reach needed. What I would like to know is.

1. Have you had a similar experience and can you offer some useful advice?

2. Is the linkage for kit suppied actually correct and does my mod seem logical?

[big gear head]

I bought a long 3/8 grade 8 bolt and cut the head off. Then I rounded the end of the bolt to fit in the fork pocket. The 3/8-16 threads were correct for the part that fits into the bottom of the bell crank. I've got several of these bolts that are different lengths that I have made for different clutches, forks and other parts that I've swapped over the years.

[L78Kiwi]

Thanks for the response, that tells me alot about the problem I am having and the most practical solution, even if it is home made

[L78steve]

Use the rod for Pontiac. Its 7 3/8 long.

[L78Kiwi]

That's helpful advice also (seriously) because I know the piece of sh#t aftermarket rod I have is about as useful as an ashtry on a motorcycle in terms of length. I am sure the parts suppliers know this (not that it stops them from offering this rubbish). But for the benefit of everybody else watching, I have bought a rod end bearing and this not only increases the length (.....yes quite often, unfortunately size matters, ) but also counters for the lack of alignment of the bell crank arm on the Z bar to the clutch fork......I guess you already know this

My next mod will be to make sure the rod can't pop out of the fork end......aftermarket parts suppliers take note.....but again I guess you alreay know this

[iluv69s]

Why not place an ad here looking for an original ? I don't think they are so rare ( expensive)