200TDi Clutch Problem

Hi all
I have a H Reg, 200 TDi Disco. Its done 125,000 and everything is going fine, except for a Clutch problem, that has gradually gotten worse the last week or two.

Here's the symptoms:

With engine running selecting and engaging first gear is nearly impossible, second is difficult, although the rest are easy.

With the engine NOT running, selecting first, starting the engine all is OK.

I'll be checking the Clutch Hydraulic System tonight, but I suspect the Clutch itself.

So, here's my questions:

What should I check before assuming / deducing its the Clutch ?

The Haynes manual talks about Transmission Removal / Engine Removal to replace the Clutch. Is there an easier way than this ? All I have is standard hand tools / jacks etc, and would be doing the job on my own. ie Transmission and / or Engine removal is out of the question for me on my own, and therefore a garage job.

Cheers

Adrian

If your not having any issues with the rest of the gears it could well be a synchromesh issue with 1st and 2nd.

Having just had the gearbox out of my 200 three times in the same month (don't ask), I would recomend that the job itself is fairly straight forward, but getting it back in can be a bitch for one man on his back as the transfer box means that the centre of gravity for the box is off to one side and the box is ba**ard heavy on your own. oh, five hours for a clutch change by third try, add at least another couple for first attempt.

I would recomend you bleed the system first, check that the pedal adjustment is okay (bolt on the pedal where it connects to the master cylinder is on a cam), possibly remove the slave to have a look and make sure the lever isn't bent (push rod should be protruding about 10 mm from housing) but beware as the push rod can become seperated from the arm, and after that life becomes sooooo much more complicated.

Hope this helps.

Seriously, if you have never done a clutch on one of these before it's a t**t to do hard heavy nasty job i was quoted £400 by Mr clutch a national franchise i think and to be honest wish i'd done that, that was parts n labour 1 yr gaurentee[?] i think it's nearly impossible on your jonesy without tools. Only trying to advise you though good luck mate.

Andy