Pedal extensions are the small accessories that reposition the pedals, clutch, brake, throttle, to suit drivers whose ergonomic preferences differ from the original-specification pedal layout. The headline MGOC product is a functional and stylish pedal extension that offers increased pedal surface area for improved accelerator control, particularly valuable on heel-and-toe driving where the larger pedal face makes the technique easier to execute consistently. The product is suitable for use on MGAs and early MGBs (1962 to 1967), the period when the original throttle pedal was a small organ-pedal style that benefits most from the extension. The classic-MG cars were designed around average-stature drivers of the 1960s, and modern drivers, taller, shorter, or with specific preferences about pedal position, sometimes find the standard pedal layout less than ideal for their preferred driving position.
Pedal extensions allow the pedals to be moved into a position that better suits the driver's preferred ergonomics.
Throttle Pedal Extensions for Heel-and-Toe
Throttle pedal extensions are the most popular pedal accessory among enthusiastic drivers, particularly those who use heel-and-toe technique during downshifts. The standard throttle pedal on a classic MG sits at a specific height relative to the brake pedal, and the relative positions are not always ideal for heel-and-toe operation. A throttle pedal extension brings the pedal face closer to the brake pedal vertically (by raising the pedal face) or laterally (by widening the pedal face), allowing the driver to operate both pedals with the same foot during a heel-and-toe downshift. The result is smoother gear changes during enthusiastic driving and the satisfaction of a properly-executed downshift that matches engine speed to the lower gear before the clutch is released.
Clutch and Brake Pedal Extensions
Clutch and brake pedal extensions cover the less common case where the driver wants to reposition either of the principal foot controls. Shorter drivers may benefit from clutch pedal extensions that bring the pedal slightly closer to the seat, reducing the leg extension required to operate the clutch fully. Taller drivers may benefit from extensions in the opposite direction (where appropriate hardware is available) or from seat positioning adjustments to achieve a comfortable driving position. The brake pedal extension is occasionally used where the driver prefers a different brake pedal height, typically to match the throttle pedal position for heel-and-toe, or to reduce the foot movement between throttle and brake during everyday driving.
Application and Installation
Pedal extensions typically install by clamping or bolting to the existing pedal, no modification to the underlying pedal mechanism is required, and the extension can be removed at any time to restore the original pedal configuration. The clamps and bolts use the existing pedal hardware, with the extension positioned where the driver wants the new pedal face to be. The result is a modified pedal layout that suits the driver's preference without permanent changes to the car.
For owners considering pedal extensions, the right approach is typically to try the standard pedal layout first, identify what is not working ergonomically, and then choose the extension specification that addresses the specific issue. The technical team is available to advise on the right pedal extension specification for a specific car and ergonomic requirement.