Mitsubishi Repair: HYDRAULIC CLUTCH?? 1989, manual transmission fluid, hydraulic clutch

Question
Anthony,

I have a 1989 Mitubishi, 2.0 l, f.i. with 150,000.  I had the clutch replaced (less than 3,000 miles) on the new clutch.  Also recently I had the clutch master and slave cylinders both replaced.  The car shifts great into all gears, except from 1st to second.  If I attempt a quick shift into 2nd or attempt to shift after 25/30 mph, it will grind and make a bump sound.  I've been told that I need to replace the front  wheel drive axle seals.  Does the shifting problem sound like a bad clutch pressure plate, tranny problem and could it be associated with the leaking axle seals.  I regularly check the level and add fluid if necessary.  
Thanks.  

Answer
Bobbi,
Worn driveshaft seals most likely would not account for your hard shifts from 1st to second.  Older Mitsubishi transmissions did have sticky lowers gears; especially in their Galants and Eclipses.  

One way to help with the grind and bump is by draining your transmission fluid and re-filling with a high-quality full synthetic manual transmission fluid.  The 3 labels I've had good luck with are BG SynchroShift II, RedLine MTF, and GM Synchromesh.  You may be able to find the BG Sychroshift at you local Mitsubishi dealership, and the GM SychroMesh may be able to be purchased at a GM dealership.  The Redline product might be able to find in a store, or online.  They are not cheap fluids, so don't be surprised if costs over $12/qt.  Your tranny fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles anyway.

But if the grinding is real bad, and doesn't go away after the car has warmed up, that may indicate worn synchronizers in the transmission.  Replacing those typically would involve a transmission rebuild.

But check with the mechanic shop that replaced your clutch.  Ask them what transmission fluid thy used when they filled it back up.  It may not be a fluid recommended for your transmission, that will cause grinding.
Good luck!