Mustang has had a variety of clutch release mechanisms in its 46-year history. For the '65-'73 generation, the Mustang's clutch release was a bellcrank setup known as an equalizer bar or Z-bar. Beginning in '74 with the Mustang II, Ford went to a cable clutch release mechanism that offered smooth operation with greater reliability. Because the pull-style clutch cable system has worked so well, Ford stayed with it for the '79-'04 Fox-body Mustangs. What made the cable system work so well was its self-adjusting design that involved virtually no maintenance between clutch replacements.
The down side to a self-adjusting clutch cable is the inability to adjust it to your individual liking. Some folks like a clutch that engages low, near the floor. Others like a clutch to grab higher in the pedal travel. This is why Steeda Autosports has developed an adjustable clutch cable system for '79-'04 Mustangs. All you have to do is periodically turn the firewall adjustment if the need warrants. The Steeda system is easy to install, but not easy to photograph, which is why we're showing the installation both on and off the vehicle instead of trying to shoot behind a cramped dashboard.
Gil Roiz of Mustangs Etc. installed the Steeda adjustable clutch system in an '89 Mustang GT convertible that he picked up for $500. It runs and it is in drivable condition, which makes it an excellent value. Because Ford produced so many '87-'93 Mustangs, they're priced right and make terrific projects. If you need to replace the clutch cable or quadrant in one of these cars, it's a great time to upgrade to the Steeda adjustable version.
Here's the Steeda Adjustable...
Here's the Steeda Adjustable Clutch Cable Kit with double hook quadrant with two cable attachment positions. With the kit, you get a new clutch cable, billet aluminum quadrant, firewall adjuster, and all attachment hardware. This is the 555-7040 kit for '83-'95. You will want the 555-7041 kit for '96-'04. There's also the 555-7042 kit with no adjustment for '83-'95.
From underneath the car, the...
From underneath the car, the clutch fork dust cover is removed first. You would be surprised by how many Fox-body Mustangs don't have this cover. Always use this cover to protect the clutch and release bearing from road debris.
The clutch cable is disconnected...
The clutch cable is disconnected from the fork next, which frees up the cable for removal.
Cable mounting at the bellhousing...
Cable mounting at the bellhousing isn't much more than a simple e-clip. Remove the clip and the cable comes free.
This bracket ties the cable...
This bracket ties the cable assembly to the left-hand framerail. A 13mm box end wrench or socket removes the bracket's fastener.
At the firewall is this no-adjust...
At the firewall is this no-adjust support grommet. A 1/4-inch drive 8mm socket removes the fastener, which frees both cable and grommet.
Quadrant replacement is performed...
Quadrant replacement is performed by feel because it's difficult to see behind the instrument panel. Even worse, it must be performed using one hand.
Once the cable is disconnected...
Once the cable is disconnected under the dashboard, it will come free as shown through the firewall.
This factory self-adjusting...
This factory self-adjusting quadrant assembly tightens clutch adjustment as the clutch wears.
It's proven reliable, although...
It's proven reliable, although the plastic construction can wear out, especially with high-performance clutches.
The plastic factory quadrant...
The plastic factory quadrant and ratchet are removed, which will expose the pivot and ratchet pins.
This aluminum quadrant pivot...
This aluminum quadrant pivot bushing is installed first. It's a good idea to use white lithium grease on metal-to-metal pivot/bushing surfaces.
Steeda's billet aluminum quadrant...
Steeda's billet aluminum quadrant is installed next, with the central pivot positioned as shown. This replaces both the quadrant and ratchet.
Hairpin-style cotter pins...
Hairpin-style cotter pins are installed next to secure the Steeda billet aluminum quadrant.
Steeda provides a replacement...
Steeda provides a replacement clutch cable with this kit, which requires removal of the factory alignment tabs. They are sanded off to make way for insertion into our Steeda firewall adjuster.
For illustration purposes,...
For illustration purposes, the cable is connected here as it would appear under the dashboard. On the right is the Steeda firewall adjuster.
The Steeda firewall adjuster...
The Steeda firewall adjuster is installed using the factory screw and an 8mm socket. The firewall adjuster is adjusted for optimum feel and function, then locked into position with an Allen set screw.
The cable is routed to clear...
The cable is routed to clear exhaust headers and attached at the left framerail bracket, which is identical to original equipment.
Here's the Steeda firewall...
Here's the Steeda firewall adjuster with cable installed. The quadrant under the dashboard and tension at the clutch fork keeps the cable secure.
The cable is secured here...
The cable is secured here at the clutch fork before installing the dust cover to complete the job.