How to Install a Gas Pedal Spring

Gas pedal springs were a common part in many older vehicles.

An automobile's gas pedal controls the throttle system and thus the vehicle's speed. Inside the car, a driver's shoes and boots bring all sorts of dirt, ice, or debris into the car, which winds up around the gas pedal. Consequently, significant amounts of corrosion will likely impede the process of replacing the gas pedal spring. Yet, with patience and preparation, this job can easily be completed in an afternoon.

Things You'll Need

• Flat head and Philips head screwdrivers
• SAE or metric socket set
• Adjustable wrench, such as vise-grip pliers
• Dremel tool with cutoff wheel
• "PB Blaster" penetrating oil
• Replacement gas pedal bolt and nut

Instructions

1. Disconnect the throttle cable from the throttle return spring and the rod controlling the throttle assembly in the vehicle's engine compartment. Releasing this cable will release the tension on the gas pedal, and make access to the pedal much simpler.

2. Visually inspect the backside of the gas pedal inside the vehicle. With the tension released from the throttle cable, the gas pedal will lift up, allowing access to the fasteners on the reverse side.

3. Remove the existing gas pedal bolt from the backside of the gas pedal by any means necessary. This bolt is likely to be highly corroded. PB Blaster penetrating oil may loosen the bolt and nut. However, the screw and nut will likely have to be cut off with a Dremel tool in order to remove the part.

4. Remove the existing gas pedal spring and replace it with an OEM replacement part. The springs are specifically designed for each individual engine and car model.

5. Replace the gas pedal bolt, making sure the bolt passes through the gas pedal spring's loop. One end of the spring rests against the gas pedal. The other end of the spring rests against the gas pedal support rod.

Tips & Warnings

• Gas pedal springs are specifically designed for individual car models. These springs should not be upgraded or downgraded without consulting the manufacturers representative or service center.

• With some vehicles, the gas pedal assembly bolts to the car's firewall. In this case, unbolting the entire assembly is possible in order to gain easy access to the back of the pedal.

References

• Gas Pedal Spring Replacement Parts

Resources

• The Find: Accelerator Springs