Sometimes, not always. while at idle and a stop shifting from neutral to first with the clutch fully down, i have a hard time actually popping it into first gear. It takes a few tries before it goes into the slot. No grinding sound, just wont go in. Is this a shifter bushing problem or actual transmission problem?

 

Check the hydraulics first (slave, then master). Assuming the hydraulics pan out, it may be the pilot bearing.

 

I had this same issue and my slave cylinder was caput! Simple trip to the parts store and $30 later all is well.

 

Yes, I second this. I've fixed issues similar to this on many different cars and usually the slave cylinder is the first thing I change.

 

if it does turn out to be the clutch related parts, if still original parts, i'd replace both, and the rubber hose.

 

I dont have any leaks. Are there any tests i can do to determine if they are good or not?

ive also read in a thread somewhere about a secondary cylinder that can lighten up the clutch a bit which is sonething i might be intrested in but i cant seem to find it any more and i dont remember what brand it was kr where it was purchased. Just something about it being a tad bit longer than the stock one?

 

1. I suppose you can check if you're losing fluid. However, it won't necessarily prove anything though. I'm not sure how, but they can fail without leaking fluid outwardly. Several years ago, my Mom's 2004 Accord chucked the slave cylinder and I never saw any signs of leakage. I replaced the slave and the car was fixed. I can't then imagine that that couldn't happen to any car with a hydraulic clutch.

2. I'm not sure what you're asking about with a secondary (slave???) cylinder that lightens the clutch so I will let someone else take a crack at that one.

 

So your saying its a hit and miss kinda thing? Cuz im not seeing any leaks.

found it. Heres the link. Its a Feed slave cylinder