Urgent CRX Clutch Problem!!!(?)

[ATLien]

I seem to be having a clutch prob. Replaced left and right CVs yesterday and had been having slight grinding coming from clutch. Today, clutch went out altogether. At least that's what it seems. I hope someone that knows something will visit and be willing to offer advice. The CV job was pretty easy but I don't know much about clutches.

My specific symptoms:
1. Shifts in and out of gears without having to press clutch.
2. Doesn't engage when I give gas while coming off clutch.
3. While idling, I hear slight rattle.

I was planning on buying the clutch set from the auto store. It contains Disc, Pressure Plate, Throw-out Bearing, Pilot Bearing/Bushing & Alignment Tool; Cover Type: Diaphragm; 8 3/8" Clutch, 20 Spline, 7/8" Hub

Is it possible that I only need to change out the cable?
Auto parts store said that it sounded as if the slave cylinder might need replacing.(?)

Any help at all would be greatly appreciated. Anyone that knows anything! Even if only resources for me to learn more myself. Thanks in advance. I'll be checking regularly so any help provided will not be in vain.

ATLien

[BullShifter]

From your description it sounds like a bad clutch. Most any modern transmission can be shifted without a clutch even it's brand new. The rattling could be an internal bearing called - input shaft bearing.

Clutch cable - is it working? NO repalce, Yes leave it

Your transmission does not have a slave cylinder since the clutch is cable activated, not hydraulic.

Ebay has cheap Exedy OEM replacement clutches

Here is a repair manual - http://www.binghamtonlife.com/manual/2gsm/default.htm

[ATLien]

Thanks a lot for the leads, mi amigo. Very helpful.

Something else. Is this a job that you've done before? The online manual suggests that the job requires some "special tools" but I know that many manuals say that about many jobs that, in actuality, don't require "special tools" for completion.

I'm debating whether or not to tackle the job myself. I have no desire to pay hundreds of bucks in labor. I have the time, if it's feasible. I've done brake replacement, wheel bearing replacement, alternator changeout and did both CV axles yesterday. I think that I could figure it out but I'm not a fool. If something is beyond my ability, I'd rather have a pro take over from the onset and not waste my time or risk damaging something.

Opinions.

Go for it? Or no?

ATLien

[BullShifter]

The only special tool you need is an alignment tool, that should come with new clutch.

Go through the transmission removal section, if you feel comfortable doing it then go for it. I think it's a very simple job, i've done it many times.