63 Throttle linkage conversion I6 to V8 ideas?

[Eagar1]

Looking for some input on how to update my linkage to work with my 350 vs the I6 it had. The stock linkage is still there as in the pic. I could go the Lokar route, but that seems like a cop out. What other things have been done? I am going for a vintage correct update, I want the truck to look like a teenager of 16 (like I would have been in 79) built it up out of what was available at the time. Of course I will have updated buckets and wheels, but still I think you know what I am after.

[DPowers]

The one on my '66 w/283 looks about the same. I will try and get a picture.

[Captainfab]

Do you have the I6 linkage rod still or is your dad using it? I'm thinking you should be able to modify that. The V8 rod isn't much different than the I6 rod IIRC.

It is pretty simple really. You just need a rod (about 1/4") with a 90* bend on one end that will fit into the hole on the arm on the firewall. (The factory one had a neat little clip that held in on the arm.) then the other emd at the carb needs to be threaded with a swivel 'T' that will fit the carb linkage arm. I'll see if I can get a pic of one tomorrow. have you checked with the aftermarket suppliers like Classic Parts, MBG Mike, or GMC Pauls here on the board ?

[markeb01]

I understand your thinking, my brain works the same way. The only difference between the linkage in your truck and mine the length of the arm that connects to the carburetor rod. On the V8 it just pulls straight back. Apparently the V8 setup has a much longer arm. Perhaps you can obtain one from a V8 truck from this series. It would certainly be the easier and cheapest solution. Over the years I may have actually shortened mine (I don't remember). My 1960 originally came with a V6 and it was a very tall engine. The arm may not need to be as long as the one shown for a small block.

Here's a shot of mine without the engine:

[Eagar1]

I will have to check and see if my dad still has the linkages, and I see how the longer arm would come into play. I have not checked the aftermarket yet, just wanted to get some input on what others have done, as there are some pretty creative folks on this board which have alot more experience than I do with converting and actually driving these trucks. Just wanted to get a feel for what works and what doesn't.

[Captainfab]

I think you should be fine with the arm that you have at the firewall now. That looks to be what 90% of the trucks I've seen have. Just put your throttle rod in the top hole and try it.

[Eagar1]

I will do that and let you know how it works out!

[MacAttack]

I'll have some shots of my rig (L6 to 293) later on this week so you can see what the shop that finished my rig did. I went round and round on this at home - thinking it might be best just to use a short extension (fine thread) at the carburetor (2barrel Rochester) with a hex coupler, but never got to it before the truck went to the transmission shop.

[Eagar1]

Thanks Mac,
If you get the chance it would be nice to see what yours looked like.

[Corts60]

Here is the linkage I made when I put dual 97's on my V-6:


Just grab a couple Heim joints and some all thread. Notice the little plate that is bolted to the original arm to extend it.

[Eagar1]

Thanks Corts60, that is kind of how I envisioned it in my mind.....extend the arm....and use some joints or clevises, allthread to keep it adjustable etc.
Cool pic, thanks!