Hi all!
A recent revelation that may be of help to those who have a sloppy brake
pedal (side to side motion).
The 0.625" pivot pin design from the factory is, um, marginal. With a wide
grove cut in each end designed to accept a narrow "E" clip, there exists an
opportunity for the pin to move a bit laterally. Considering the bracket it
runs through is made of "tinfoil", over time, and with internal wear, this
slack eventually allows a good bit of axial play. My brake pedal moved in a
range of almost 2" at the pedal, yet the pin was only worn by 0.005".
I had great success by visiting my local Home Depot where I purchased a
"STANDARD GRADE" (as in, out of the bins) 5/8" x 3.5" coarse thread bolt,
accompanying nut, and 3 or 4 machinery bush washers.
The shoulder (non-threaded part) of the bolt is the optimum length for this
fitting. One, perhaps two, of the bushes can be added so that the nut can
be tightened right down on the end of the thread, then pinned or loctited in
place. This refitting appears to make the pedal even more solidly mounted
than a new stock pin would do. This fix should work on all spit I-III style
pedal assemblies. With common sense, it could be adapted to the later
cars, if a suitable bolt can be found.
Now the disclaimer. "THIS IS NOT MY ADVICE, JUST A REPORT OF WHAT I HAVE
DONE TO MY OWN CAR". That said, if I can shear a 5/8" bolt before I mangle
that stamped steel pedal into a pretzel, I'm already likely in waaay too
deep in the corner. I believe that the improved pedal feel will be of great
benefit. Use your common sense.
Oh ya.... that would be -1 point at concours for "non-original braking
system" (LOL)
Dave T
Winnipeg
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