32/36 DFEV Carb throttle linkage separates

[phaetn]

The throttle linkage that joins the throttle pedal lever that comes out from the firewall falls away from the lever at times. It doesn't happen often, but enough that it's a problem as I suddenly get an unresponsive throttle pedal as the pedal's lever in the engine is no longer linked to the carb.



It looks like at some point there may have been a groove or something to prevent this, or maybe a hat/cap, but now it can just come out with no warning (like during this morning's commute to work!). I can pull over and reset it, but it's problematic.

Any tips? Should I try and weld an end cap (using a dime or a nickle) so the link can't work its way out? Can I just bend the accelerator metal cable clips to release the rod and then bend them back on?

Thanks in advance,
phaetn

[baltobernie]

Two suggestions: Post in "Parts Wanted" for that small vertical linkage as a temporary fix. The sheet metal clip enlarges over time, and the male end can pop out as you've discovered.

Secondly, consider changing your linkage to the more modern Spider setup, with a bellcrank on the cam cover and a cable linkage. The many joints on the older linkage, plus the fact that it's attached at one end to the firewall, makes for an uneven idle and sloppy performance. Post in "Parts Wanted" for a salvage linkage, which includes a replacement throttle pedal.

[aj81spider]

You probably just need one of these:

http://www.autoricambi.us/product/CA0-6 ... able-Clip/

I'd take the linkage off (those clips slide when you press the little pushed out part), clean it up and see if the bottom one is damaged.

One tip, when sliding the clips, slide to the center. Otherwise they will pop off and fall into the black hole vortex in your garage never to be found again.

[phaetn]

Thanks for the replies, gents!

Cheers,
phaetn

[phaetn]

Turns out it wasn't the clip per se, but that the ball stem was no longer properly connected to the pedal lever. It was loose and would just drop out -- the ball remained held by the clip, though, and I could just reset the stem into the hole, but there was nothing to really keep it in place. Got the piece welded back on today; it's never coming off again.

Cheers,
phaetn