Hydraulic or manual clutch linkage?
 

Im doing a 5.3 with a 5sp nv4500 conversion in my 72 blazer 4x4.. Have you guys who have done the 5.3 conversion kept stock linkage or switched to a late model hydraulic setup?:hmm:

Re: Hydraulic or manual clutch linkage?
 

I know that this isn't a 5.3, but I did a hydraulic clutch deal on a LT1, 6spd for my 68 SWB. However, I believe that this can be applied to your application.

I used the 68 stock clutch pedal assembly, aftermarket (CNC) hydraulic firewall assembly, and aftermarket (CNC) hydraulic slave cylinder. I modified the stock bracket that originally actuated the push rod through the firewall on the manual clutch. I used some flat plate to modify this stock bracket so it would push on the hydraulic firewall reservoir assembly. I can't remember exactly, but I think the manufacturer recommended a 5:1 ratio of pedal lengh to bracket length? This ratio directly influences how tuff it is to push the pedal in.

Attached below are a couple pictures of this from behind the dash and from the engine compartment (firewall reservoir assembly is just to the left of the brake booster).

I don't have any pictures of the slave cylinder deal, but I built a bracket there too and bent a hardline down to the slave cylinder.

It works great. I still need to put in a pedal stop to keep from overdriving the slave cylinder.

The only thing that I miss from a manual clutch is having it engage close to the floor. The hydraulic setup engages further out from the floor.

I have also attached a picture of my work in progress.

Re: Hydraulic or manual clutch linkage?
 

If you call advance adapters they should be able to help you. I am planning on doing the hydro swap to my stock 4 speeed 4x4 and they have everything I need so i'm sure they can help you out too.

Re: Hydraulic or manual clutch linkage?
 

I went hydro when I put my 454 in.
I used 86 GM Master Cyl. 80's Toyota LandCruser Slave w/Advance Adapter slave mount(blots to the bell housing). Bleeding it was the hardest part. Works great!
Good Luck
Burt