Is there such a thing...Clutch Extender

[Patron47]

I had intended on buying a 2001 530i for my wife, but after test driving it this morning, she had difficulty fully engaging the clutch. She's almost 5ft short. :eek: Were can I purchase a clutch extender for this model? Thanks

[lilxyoshi]

you mean "clutch stop" ?

[The Beastmaster]

I don't know if there are clutch extenders available. Maybe she can just move her seat all the way forward. Or perhaps you can get some 1.5" or 2" box tube and bolt it to the clutch pedal. Don't forget to put some non-skid material on the box tube. You can use either the sandpaper type used on stairs or use a rubberized coating.

[JAlfredPrufrock]

Was the seat all the way forward and down?

[Patron47]

Seat was adjusted as far forward without hitting the steering wheel. I'm only 4'11" or 59 inches tall. An acquaintance owns the same model and he's 6'5". He bought it because it's one of the few sporty type cars he can fit in. I've seen pedal extensions for other vehicles like the Audi but not for the BMW.

[JAlfredPrufrock]

Can she reach the other pedals OK? I'm assuming you have longer legs than her.

[lilxyoshi]

ummm... drill a block of wood onto the clutch pedal?

[Patron47]

Actually, this is Mrs.Patron47 - I hijacked this post from my husband, who by the way is of normal height. I can reach the break and gas pedals just fine it's just the clutch. I may try some type of backside padding and see if that works. Never had this reach problem with any other car except with a 1971 Vet. Thanks for your help.

[JAlfredPrufrock]

Hmmm you might want to PM Rob Levinson from UUC and see if he can come up with something...

A clutch stop would help as the total travel of the clutch would be reduced.

[thejlevie]

Actually, this is Mrs.Patron47 - I hijacked this post from my husband, who by the way is of normal height. I can reach the break and gas pedals just fine it's just the clutch. I may try some type of backside padding and see if that works. Never had this reach problem with any other car except with a 1971 Vet. Thanks for your help.

I guess I'm a little surprised that you're having a problem with the clutch if you can get the seat far enough forward for the gas and brakes. The reach deficient may be small enough that a pad on the clutch pedal may do the job.

Also I wonder if the clutch might be worn or mis-adjusted on this car. Wear on the clutch disk tends to move the disengagement point towards the floor. Have you had an opportunity to drive any others with a manual transmission?