Hard to shift into first gear

[FR1993]

Recently I have noticed that it is sometimes very difficult to shift to first gear when I start my truck. It only happens sometimes... other times it is just fine.

My boyfriend drove my truck the other day and first gear gave him a hard time too... now, he said I will probably have to replace the clutch... but I have been researching some similar topics on here and I don't think I have to go as far as changing the clutch...???

From what I have read, it may be the hydrolic (sp?) fluid...? ANY help would be appreciated... because God knows I'd rather replace some fluid than have to put a whole new clutch in.

Thanks.

[ModMech]

If you ONLY have troubles shifting into 1st while stopped (you can get into any other gear ok), then it's not the clutch but the transmission.

[FR1993]

Well it actually does it sometimes when I go to put it in reverse... please say it's not the transmission....??

[trannyman52]

if the slave cylinder on the firewall is full,,,if the clutch pedal has full
travel,,,,the clutch is probably shot!!!!

[freeclimber]

Oftentimes a bad pilot bearing will make shifting into gear difficult. It locks the flywheel onto the inpuft shaft of the trans and doesn't care if you're pushing the clutch in or not. These bearings can go well before the clutch is worn out, especially if you idle the truck a lot.
A worn clutch will slip under load, it won't make shifting harder. Check your resevoir for fluid first. The slave cyl could be leaking.