Replacing the Clutch Cable in a 1982-1993 Fox Body Mustang

If you're starting to experience an overly stiff clutch pedal, difficulty engaging gears, or a floppy clutch pedal that refuses to come back up, there's a good chance you need to replace the clutch cable in your 1982-1993 Mustang. A new Fox Body clutch cable will allow for smooth gear shifts and an easily controllable clutch pedal.

Luckily, replacing the clutch cable in your Fox Body isn't a hard job and can be done by a novice mechanic with some free time on their hands. Learn how to perform a Fox Body Mustang clutch cable replacement in this article. If you're curious about Fox Body clutch cable wiring routing, we also cover that below.

How to Replace the Clutch Cable in a 1982-1993 Ford Mustang

In this installation guide, we're going to walk you through replacing the clutch cable in your Fox Body. If you're still having issues shifting after installation, it's a good idea to check if your clutch needs replacing. Learn about the symptoms of a bad or worn clutch and decide if replacing it is right for you and your build.

Regardless of what Mustang clutch cable you're installing on your 1982-1993 Fox Body, the steps are going to be essentially the same with a few small differences. This clutch cable install is intended for V8 Foxes. The process will also be different if you have a 4- or 6-cylinder 1982-1993 Mustang.

Tools Needed

• Jack and Jack Stands
• Screwdriver Set
• Torx Bit
• Ratchet and Socket Set
• Needle Nose Pliers

Step 1: Jack up Your Car

Start by parking your car on a level surface in your garage or on your driveway. Then, use your jack and jack stands to lift your car and allow you to safely work underneath it.

Step 2: Remove Clutch Fork Cover

Crawl under the car and locate the clutch fork cover. Then, remove the cover using an 8mm socket and wrench.

Step 3: Disconnect Clutch Cable

Pull the clutch cable back and over to disconnect it from the clutch fork. Then, push the cable through the hole in the Mustang bellhousing as shown below. A set of needle nose pliers could be helpful for this.

Step 4: Unbolt Clutch Cable Bracket

The Mustang clutch cable is connected to the frame of your ride with a small bracket. Locate and unbolt the bracket and then pull the rest of the clutch cable out from underneath the engine.

Step 5: Drop Steering Column (Optional)

You can drop the steering column to access the stock clutch quadrant more easily. Start by removing the steering wheel cover. This might require you to tilt the wheel for better access.

Remove the several 7mm, 8mm, and Torx bolts holding the various steering wheel panels in place. After you've done that, use a 15mm socket to remove the four bolts required to drop the steering column. Once it's removed, you can rest it on the driver's seat for the duration of the installation.

Step 6: Separate Clutch Cable from Clutch Quadrant

Reach up above the gas pedal until you feel the Mustang clutch quadrant. You should be able to pull down and out on the cable to separate it from the clutch quadrant.

Step 7: Pull Clutch Cable Through Firewall

Remove the small bolt from the firewall pictured below. Then, pull the Mustang clutch cable through the firewall. This completely removes it from the car.

Step 8: Feed New Clutch Cable Through Firewall

Pull the new Mustang clutch cable through the sleeve at the quadrant end and feed it through the firewall. Then, re-hook the clutch cable up to the clutch quadrant.

Step 9: Bolt New Clutch Cable to Car

Slide the sleeve at the quadrant back up, then bolt the bracket you removed in Step 7 back to the firewall. If you decided to lower your steering column earlier, you can now reassemble the steering column, steering wheel cover, and the panels below.

Step 10: Route the New Clutch Cable

Feed the new clutch cable under the Mustang motor mount, over the Mustang K-member, and then back to the transmission.

Step 11: Re-attach the Clutch Cable to the Clutch Fork

Push the clutch cable through the hole in the bell housing in the transmission and back to the clutch fork. Then, reattach the clutch cable to the clutch fork and reinstall the clutch fork cover.

Step 12: Bolt Clutch Cable Bracket

Bolt the bracket holding the middle of the clutch cable to the frame mentioned in Step 4 down.

Step 13: Adjust Clutch Quadrant

Many Fox Body Mustangs have an adjustable clutch quadrant from the factory. Press the clutch pedal anywhere from 5-10 times until it becomes stiff to adjust it properly.

Congratulations, you're all done!

Do Away With a Floppy Clutch Pedal

Replacing the clutch cable in your 1982-1993 Fox Body Mustang is a great way to improve the driving experience of your ride. Over time, the factory cable can become worn out and lead to a floppy clutch pedal and imprecise gearshifts. Keep your V8 1982-1993 Mustang's clutch feeling great with a new clutch cable today.

If the clutch cable we installed doesn't work for your ride, we're sure to have one for your Fox Body below.