[DeTomaso] clutch release lever and adjustment question

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

In a message dated 9/5/09 1:55:41 PM, boyd411 at gmail.com writes:

> How hard should it be to pull the clutch release lever (with vise grips).
> 
Pretty hard if you're trying to partially disengage the clutch. Some 
clutches are 2200 lbs force while others are 'only' around 1600 lbs. If you're 
only trying to move the throwout to touch the clutch levers, note that in a 
stock Pantera there is a hairpin spring on the under-dash cross-shaft, a spring 
in the clutch master cylinder, a spring in the slave cylinder and a fairly 
stiff spring inside the bellhousing on the cross-shaft there. While the 
first two are 'out of the circuit' when you use pliers on the bellcrank, the 
last two still add up and your leverage isn't much....
And be careful- that external bellcrank lever is cast steel and WILL break 
if you bend it ever so slightly. They are non-repairable and you probably 
don't want to know what a NOS or useable replacement will cost. Also, do not 
try smacking it sideways with a hammer to slide the lever off the cross-shaft 
(once the retaining bolt & nut are completely removed); that too will break 
the lever- as a certain prominent non-mechanic found. Good luck- J Deryke