[DeTomaso] Clutch and -2 ZF Pilot Bearing - Late '73 Pantera L Model

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

First, I'd try calling your Pantera vendors. Because of the larger diameter 
of a Ford oilite pilot bushing and the current outrageous cost of copper, 
they're not commonly stocked. Of the ones that are, please take a small magnet with 
you when shopping. It seems that there are 3 or 4 different 'oilite' 
compounds; some are magnetic from the amount of iron-up to 90%- adulterating the 
sintered bronze. The magnetic type of 'oilite' will rapidly wear the nose of your 
ZF input shaft (and indeed any transmission input shaft!) eventually forcing 
expensive repairs. What you need is all-bronze oilite. Your friendly Autozone or 
Napa employee will likely not have a clue. 
On the PI website, Marlin Jack makes a proper all-bronze oilite bushing that 
fits. For qute a few years, I made aluminum adapter rings that accepted the 
much smaller diameter Chevy all-bronze pilot bushing that fit the ZF input shaft 
nose. Thse pilot bushings are made by Lakewood Industries & sold by most 
speed shops. Making the adapter ring is a 10-minute lathe job for any home 
machinest. Or, if you have a lathe, the bronze round-stock is sold by several metal 
supply houses. Good luck- J DeRyke


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