96 SL1 Can't get into First Gear

[MJPF]

SL1 5 spd - 85,000 Miles. When I drive I can shift into any gear easily except 1st gear. I read at a few different places if you can't get it into First you will have trouble with reverse, but there is no trouble. I can get into first if I am still slowly moving I can slip into first with a little grinding. Does this mean I need a new clutch or is something loose?? It drives nice and smooth other than that, and I can skip first gear by starting in 2nd. Any help would be appreciated!

[sierrap615]

can you shift into first when stoped?

[MJPF]

No, it feels as if something is blocking it from getting engaged.

[sierrap615]

i know the feeling, since it still grinds, i doubt its the synrco. i have heard of others with simular problems, replaced the clutch and all was well. you may want to get a second opition, post on saturnfans.com

[MJPF]

One last question, how much and how hard is it to replace the clutch myself. (My experience is limited but I have done minor work including Replacing Alternator, Tune Up...) versus mechanic?
Thanks for everything, and I will post on SaturnFans. -Mike

[sierrap615]

i haven't done a clutch job before, but there are a few how-tos on saturnfans.

[i3o2Matt]

hmm...i had the same problem in my car...except my car is a 5-speed 89 Maxima. turned out the trans was shot which in turn burned out the clutch. it was almost impossible to get into first, then sometimes when i did get it into first, sometimes when i was makin a u-turn, it would pop back out. i hope its not the trans...but it could be...