Shifting Issues

[pazverde]

Recently after finally fixing the wiring issues in my 87 4wd I've been having some weird shifting issues. My van frequently grinds when I shift into reverse from a full stop this has been an occasional problem since I bought it but more recently It's also been really difficult to shift into first from a full stop. It's not grinding there's just alot of resistance in most cases I've had to force it or try and shift into 3rd or 4th then back into 1st. Wanted to ask here before having to get the tranny or clutch checked out.

[Burntboot]

I suspect the occurrence is more co-incidence than anything.

When a clutch wears, the disc gets thinner, the friction point rises (pedal gets higher) until it slips so much it wont move the vehicle.

When the hydraulics are at fault, the pressure plate isn't being fully compressed, so the disc doesn't fully release and continues to be "driven".
It presents as a difficulty selecting 1st and reverse and the friction point dropping (pedal gets lower)

Start with bleeding, it may help, especially if the fluid is nasty.
If you do bleed some air out of the system, then you will know you have to start replacing parts. (slave &/or master)

[boogieman]

ive had similar issues, sometimes double clutching or like you shifting into another gear to get into 1st or reverse, which im pretty sure doesnt have a synchro so not surprising if theres a little grind there...switching from fancy synthetic gear oil to regular 80/90 seemed to help...also mine is alot easier to shift when its warm...its also possible my clutch is original at 253k