98 Saturn Clutch Replacement

Had a shifter-cable fail in this 98 Saturn so had it replaced and now it is twisted and worn again. The mechanic says it's probably because the clutch is bad and the cable was a replacement type and not a Saturn cable.

I am thinking of replacing the clutch myself because the parts are relatively cheap and the labor is high. (Maybe for a good reason.) I don't have access to a hydraulic lift or transmission jack, but have an engine hoist if the job can be done that way.

I have heard that the clutch can be replaced without removing the transmission. I've replaced dozens of clutches in the 'old days' but this is something new for me. Obviously I know nothing, so get me started!