Toyota Repair: 99 Tacoma Manual Trans Clutch Problems, clutch master cylinder, worn clutch

Question
Hi Mike.  I have a 99 Toyota Tacoma 4x4, 2.7l 4 cyl, manual 5 speed transmission, with about 63K miles on it.  It is a great truck in great condition with no major 4x4ing under its belt.  I would estimate 85% hwy usage and 15% minor off-roading.

Since purchasing 2 yrs ago, I have noticed more and more rough shifts going up through the gears.  Not just one gear but up through all the gears.  This rough feeling is not in the gear itself but at the engagement point of the clutch.  If you time your shifts just perfect (requiring some concentration) you can get smooth shifts but otherwise you will notice some "bucking" or "grabbing".  This "bucking" doesn't feel as if it is in the transmission but rather in the clutch assembly.  It's as if the timing of the engine speed and the transmission speed are off once reaching for the next gear?  I have never had any other clutch problems, gear problems, shifter popping out or getting into gear problems with this truck?  Just this engagement problem between engine and tranny.  And no slipping at all in the clutch once engaged.  Sometimes it feels as if the drive train engages at a different spot in the travel of the clutch petal.

Other observations: a few times I have driven my truck with a load of mulch or dirt (a load) and it shifts/engages perfectly.  I also notice it less while in 4x4.  There are no visual leaks to the transmission or bell housing, no visual leaking or bad seals either.  Clutch master cylinder fluid is good.

I have been driving manual transmissions for a long time and haven't had any trouble on other vehicles or even other Tacoma's I have test driven.  I am very puzzled by this?  Could it be a worn clutch plate or fork?  Any ideas?

Thanks

Shane


Answer
So if im getting you right its not putting the stick into a gear, the problem is letting the clutch up?

If I get you right then thats NOT a trans problem.
Sounds like the clutch disk is sticking on the input shaft.

Make sure you check the drive shaft u-joints.
Ive seen them cause weird shift feel when they get tight.

Mike