I’m installing a hydraulic clutch swap into my 75’ CJ5 w/258 motor and T18 trans. I was able to find a mint hydraulic set up from an 85’ CJ (MC, slave, and hose). I know that most people that have done this swap are using parts from 81’ to 84’ because the slave cylinder has the same mounting hole positions as the old mechanical pivot, making it a direct bolt on. I’m going to fab my own bracket to compensate for this but my question is on the alignment of the push rod from the slave cylinder to the clutch fork. How much of an angle can there be between the two and how much throw do I need from the SC to disengage the clutch? I was able to compare the SC from the one that I bought to a new one from an 81’ CJ. They are identical in size, length, and the push rod length and throw are the same, the only difference is the mounting holes are on one side vs one hole on top and bottom. When I hold it up to the bell housing were it would be mounted it looks like the push rod will be way to short, at full extension and at a slight angle. Do I need to find some sort of extended and maybe adjustable push rod for this swap? Also has anyone done this swap and have headers? I’m a little concerned on the proximity of my headers to the SC. I’m thinking that some sort of heat shield might be in order?

Anyone have pics on this swap?

no offense, I admire your fabrication ambitions, but a brand new slave of the bolt-on design for a CJ is $70. how much time effort and cash is your solution gonna cost you?

I agree to an extent. What I was trying to explain is that when I compared the two different slave cylinders the only differance was the mounting hole locations. The distance from slave to fork and the throw of the push rod are still the same on both.
As for time and expense, I have alot of scap 1/4" plate laying around to make the braket out of, and time, I like spending time on the old heep, keeps me out of my wifes hair.

A-HA!
see, I get the guilt trip for spending time on the Jeep(s) rather than with her.

It used to be that way, just give it time. Hey, have you done this swap on your rig.

personally, no I haven't.
I wathced a guy do it to a customer's Jeep once, and he used the all stock parts.
I would think you're going to have to keep the slave very close in-line to the clutch or your going to get a fast death on your throwout bearing from any odd side loads you might get. maybe an acceptable range of 5* out of a straight line, max.

i just did this.

i ended up cutting the end off of the push rod, putting a coupling nut on, and cutting the head off a grade5 bolt for the extension. it works fine.

matt

jeepnmatt, that sounds like a slick idea, I'll give it a go. How did the alignment on yours turn out? Just by eyeballing it looks like mine will have a slight angle toward the motor to hit the fork properly, then again when I fab the bracket I could probably give it a little kick toward the bellhousing so that it is straight at it.

i'm sure the alignment is not perfect, but its close. a little angle is OK. i'll try to take a pic tonight and email it to you.

matt