1969 Camaro Clutch requirements for a Saginaw M15 3 speed

[jbehr210]

Does anyone have the specs for clutch replacement for a Saginaw M15 3 speed.
I dont want to pull the transmission out before ordering a new clutch. I am not sure if it is a 10 spline,( i think it is), and what the benefits/disadvantages are for the 10.4" clutch versus a 11" clutch. 

Does adding a hydraulic throw out bearing make the clutch easier to push in? I would like to allow my wife to drive the car too, but the clutch is just to hard for her to push in.

Thanks in advance for feedback.

[jbehr210]

Really no one knows, or did I post this in the wrong forum section?
Any feedback would be appreciated.

[ZLP955]

Never had a Sag 3-speed myself, but as far as I know, in that 1969 era the input shaft would have been a coarse spline as you suggested. Hopefully someone familiar with the M15 can confirm, but a trans shop (or an online vendor's site like Summit or JEGS with an application selection tool) should be able to confirm?

As far as the clutch diameter goes, do you know what size flywheel your engine has, as you'll need to make sure the new clutch matches. In addition, the flywheel may well need to be surfaced, so personally I'd pull the trans to check all the details and condition before ordering new parts. Means more down time, but at least you'll know exactly what you need and won't waste time and money chasing parts.

[69Z28-RS]

Am I remembering incorrectly that only the big block cars had the 11" clutches from the factory?? 

Even the Z28 came with 10.4", so I'd suspect the *(six cylinder?)* engines and other SB V8 s all had the same.

[JKZ27]

I believe the SS 350 has the 11" at least in 69.

[bertfam]

All the information you need is in the free GM HERITAGE CENTER PACKAGE for your particular year and model, but in a nutshell, your M15 is a 10 spline input and requires a 9.12" clutch (commonly known as a 10" clutch) if you have an L6, or a 10.34" clutch (commonly known as the 10.5" clutch) if you have a small block.

Ed

[KurtS]

Any of the standard replacement clutches that you can buy should work fine and have low pedal pressure.
Your car doesn't have a 11" bellhousing, so that's not a good option.

[jbehr210]

All the information you need is in the free GM HERITAGE CENTER PACKAGE for your particular year and model, but in a nutshell, your M15 is a 10 spline input and requires a 9.12" clutch (commonly known as a 10" clutch) if you have an L6, or a 10.34" clutch (commonly known as the 10.5" clutch) if you have a small block.

Ed

Thanks for  this info. I had never heard of this site before. I have a 350 so the 10.5 inch should be the one.
Jim

[jbehr210]

Any of the standard replacement clutches that you can buy should work fine and have low pedal pressure.
Your car doesn't have a 11" bellhousing, so that's not a good option.

Ok on the bellhousing.
I am not sure what clutch is in it now, but it is hard to push the pedal even for me. I have only had the car for less than a year so i haven't torn into the drivetrain until now. I noticed some slip and smell when I pushed it the other day and figured it is time to replace it. I suspect the clutch in it is 10+ years old.

[jbehr210]

Never had a Sag 3-speed myself, but as far as I know, in that 1969 era the input shaft would have been a coarse spline as you suggested. Hopefully someone familiar with the M15 can confirm, but a trans shop (or an online vendor's site like Summit or JEGS with an application selection tool) should be able to confirm?

As far as the clutch diameter goes, do you know what size flywheel your engine has, as you'll need to make sure the new clutch matches. In addition, the flywheel may well need to be surfaced, so personally I'd pull the trans to check all the details and condition before ordering new parts. Means more down time, but at least you'll know exactly what you need and won't waste time and money chasing parts.

ZLP955, Point taken. Thanks

[bcmiller]

Yes I agree about taking it apart first before getting parts. Your local NAPA or another local vendor should be able to get what you need.

And to be clear, I am pretty sure only the SS 350 (L48) and big block engine cars got the 11 inch clutch from the factory.

The 10.5 inch clutch should work fine for you. Z28s had that same clutch.

Depends on that you do with the car. I run a 12 inch clutch and a Lakewood bellhousing. 😎

 

[KurtS]

There are cars out there with their original clutches. Age doesn't matter - treatment of it does.
Read up on the clutch options. Some have easier pedal force than others.

[Sauron327]

Your linkage is most likely worn out, which will add resistance. Jody's Transmissions can provide you with the tech advice and components you require, as well as upgraded reduced friction linkages (Spherical rod ends). I made my own in 1984.

[69Z28-RS]

Any of the standard replacement clutches that you can buy should work fine and have low pedal pressure.
Your car doesn't have a 11" bellhousing, so that's not a good option.

Ok on the bellhousing.
I am not sure what clutch is in it now, but it is hard to push the pedal even for me. I have only had the car for less than a year so i haven't torn into the drivetrain until now. I noticed some slip and smell when I pushed it the other day and figured it is time to replace it. I suspect the clutch in it is 10+ years old.

From the deep recesses of my memory, I recall there was a time when 'Long style' (3 finger) clutches were preferred by hot rodders... these required lots more pedal pressure to engage.  Diaphram style clutches greatly reduce the force required...   Unless I just dreamed this up.. 

[Stingr69]

As another post suggested, check all the external linkages for wear and source the ones you need before starting.  The cross shaft may be worn and the throwout bearing/fork/pivot will likely need to be changed at this point.  Bushing/seal kits are available for the cross shaft if it is still serviceable.  You do not want to try to "upsize" the clutch now as it would require a LOT of different parts to complete the swap.  Just replacing/lubricating the linkage will make a big difference in how it feels. Diaphragm clutch is OEM style and it is the right way to go now. LUK is a good clutch brand to use IMO.

-Mark.