A-body 4 Speed Z Bar

Every push of the clutch pedal in a four-speed A-body runs through the Z-bar, the bellcrank mounted between the frame rail and the engine that turns the pedal rod's pull into a push on the clutch fork. When the bar is bent, worn at its pivots or swapped for the wrong piece, pedal feel goes vague, the clutch may not release fully, and the linkage can bind at the bottom of the stroke. This PG Classic reproduction (212-A) is built to OEM specifications for small-block V8 cars, so the geometry matches what Chrysler engineered for the LA-series engines.

Dimensions and Small-Block Specifics

The tube measures 7 inches, and the bellhousing-side spline section measures 10-1/2 inches. Those numbers matter because Chrysler built the clutch linkage around the engine family, and the Z-bar, clutch fork, fork pivot and adjustment rod are all specific to small-block or big-block applications. Owners describe the small-block bar as having two straight arms, while the big-block version uses one arm curved near the bellhousing. Slant Six cars use their own bar as well, so measure your old part or confirm your engine before ordering.

How It Mounts

The frame end of the Z-bar pivots on a fixed ball stud, while the engine end rides on a ball stud that can slide within the bar to absorb engine movement on its mounts. The bar is located by a two-piece plastic bushing, with a spring pin that seats in a groove to hold it in position. With everything aligned and pinned, the clutch rod should sit centered in its firewall hole. Replace tired bushings and inspect both ball studs while the linkage is apart, because worn pivots will undo the benefit of a new bar.

One Per Car

The Z-bar is sold individually, and each car uses one. It suits correct restorations, small-block manual conversions in cars that left the factory with an automatic, and anyone chasing down a clutch that never felt right. If you run aftermarket headers, check clearance before final assembly, since one owner with underchassis headers found his Z-bar contacting a header tube.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this Z-bar work with a big-block A-body?
No, this bar is built for small-block V8 cars. Big-block A-bodies use a Z-bar with a curved arm near the bellhousing, along with a different fork and pivot.

Are bushings and ball studs included?
The listing covers the Z-bar itself. Inspect the two-piece pivot bushing and both ball studs during installation and replace them if they show wear.

Does it fit a 1966 Dart?
The fitment for this bar begins with 1967, the year the A-body was redesigned. For 1966 and earlier cars, confirm your linkage style before ordering.

Fitment: 1967-1976 Dodge Dart; 1967-1976 Plymouth Barracuda; 1967-1976 Plymouth Valiant; 1970-1974 Plymouth Duster; 1971 Plymouth Demon; 1971-1972 Plymouth Scamp