Unless you changed your shifter, it is not part of the problem.

How is your clutch pedal pressure? Consistently solid?

 

The pressure is solid as far as I know. I didnt see a change in it when i went around the block.

 

Mine is just the same. Im running an exedy twinplate and flywheel. 1st gear change is notchy with a short shifter as you need to put more force on the shortshifter, My top section is filled with trans fluid as well and i dont think thats an issue . I dont think that a twin plate install will be exactly the same as a standard clutch and exedy state in the install notes that it will be slightly heavy. Did you rotate the trans side disc so as that its not installed exactly as the flywheel disc. I know this does make a difference but i dont know what as exedy dont explain why you rotate it slightly..

 

bump