SC2 Hard To Shift Into Gear.....

I have a 1997 SC2 that has had a problem with shifting into first gear for quite some time now, and has recently got worse and is now prevailing in second and sometimes third gear (manual trans).When the car is shut off it shifts gears just fine. My first thought is a worn clutch, I have noted the clutch engages near the end of the pedal travel. Any input on this??....And if it does need a clutch am i going to have to drop the whole cradle with engine and everything to change it? Am I looking at a new flywheel also? Pilot bearing? Am i going to save myself a huge headache by just taking it to the dealer to have them do it?Thanks

You may need a new clutch assembly. It really depends on the driver and how they use the clutch. Your pressure plate may also be worn and therefor will give you a hard time getting into gear. Usually hard shifting into first gear is associated with a worn pressure plate.

You can do the clutch with out removing the tranny. Flywheel should be fine. WHen you get the clutch assembly it comes with a throw out bearing and alignment tool.

I have a 98 SC2 and since i had bought it it gave me the same problem. Don't goto the dealer, they are not your friends. My car was covered with a 3000 mile powertrain warranty and when i went in to have them fix it, knowing the problem was of the powertrain. They just brushed me off, time and time again. So finally it got to the point where it just needed to be fixed. I replaced the clutch and had found the not only was the clutch disc worn almost completely down but the pressure plate had been bent and warped causing it not to engage completely, making it hard to shift... so take about 500 dollars goto your local garage, (NOT DEALER). and have them put a new clutch kit in for you. Now i just gotta fix everything else... good luck!

Thanks for all your help. Its only getting worse and i Dont want to replace the transmission if that isnt the problem so im leaning toward replacing the clutch, I found a how to page online that was on a 2001 saturn, i beleive they are the same motor and trans. If anyone has any tips or advice before I start this it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.