Next to the steering wheel, the most important interface between a guy and his ride is the pedals. They are definitely worthy of some attention. Enter Lokar Performance Products, long known for its trick pedal assemblies that combine form and function into systems any gearhead would be happy to rub against his feet.
In the case of our '66 Nova, the owner wanted to swap the old-tech rod-type throttle linkage for an easier-to-adjust cable arrangement. The Lokar stuff made this a snap, and as an added bonus it looks great, too. Total install time was around two to three hours, and the parts set us back $242.33, plus shipping, from Summit.
Here's what we'll be installing. The pedal assembly (PN BAG-6127, $120.95) fits '62-67 Novas. Also needed is the throttle cable and bracket set (PN DP-1000U36, $70.39). The matching ball-milled brake pedal cover (PN BAG-6131, $50.99) keeps it all looking great.
The first step is to disassemble the Lokar gas pedal assembly by removing the stainless socket capscrew from the end of the mounting shaft.
Over in the engine bay, you'll need to disconnect the old throttle linkage from the carburetor. Once finished there, you can remove the throttle rod and arm since they'll no longer be needed.
The factory pedal assembly is held to the firewall by two screws. Loosen these and the old unit can be removed. Then drill out the two original holes to 1 7/64-inch for the two 1/4-inch bolts provided by Lokar. With the holes drilled out, mount the shaft to the firewall from the car's interior. The firewall mounting plate will be installed from the engine side of the firewall, sandwiching the firewall between the plate and the mounting shaft. Once the bolts are secured with the supplied nylock nuts, you can mark this part of the install done!
Now you can reassemble the gas pedal assembly. Keep in mind that the splined arms can be switched left to right, if needed, for clearance. With the assembly attached to the mounting shaft, push the upper arm parallel with the firewall and make a mark on the firewall in line with the hole in the upper arm. This is where you will drill the 5/16-inch hole for the throttle cable to pass through.
The 36-inch Lokar throttle cable kit comes with everything you need, including the throttle cable bracket, return springs, and even the Allen wrenches.