Shifting difficulty
 

The engine is now back in and the new clutch, flywheel and pressure plate are in. I've checked the shift coupler and it is attached (was off for the drop).

Clutch is nice and strong. The only problem is, which is different than before, I cannot put it into first from a stand still without grinding the gears. Regardless of double clutching or adjusting revs, she just wants to grind. Also, when coming out of first, there's a noticeable resistance and a dull thud when coming out. Other gears are all fine.

All was smooth before, with the exception of the worn clutch.

Any thoughts?

Might need to readjust the coupler.

That sounds like the clutch isn’t completely releasing. The dragging clutch overwhelms the friction of the syncro. The reason it “pops” coming out of gear can be the gear is loaded from the clutch not releasing fully so it is still loaded.

Will it go into reverse at idle without grinding?

Did the clutch cable get wound around the parking brake cable?

Are there ALL new parts, including flywheel? Did you compare the old parts to the new ones?

When the clutch is fully depressed, is the clutch release fork touching the opening in the transmission bell-housing?

Don’t let it grind 1-5 while testing; that will damage the syncros.

Best,
Grady

PS, one of these days I’ll tell you my ’70 RCMP story.

I'm with Grady on this one... sounds like the clutch needs adjusting... this is easy, so start there.

There should be a tech article where clutch adjustment is described.

You guys are bang on. I did some deeper looking through other threads AFTER I posted this one. I gotta remember to utilize the search function more.

The clutch wasn't adjusted properly. Wasn't fully disengaging. Now it's adjusted properly and the shift is smooth as silk.

Thanks a bunch!!

Jim