Toyota Repair: 95 Corolla manual transmission, clutch system, reservoir level

Question
Hey Ted... 1995 Corolla 1.6L 4FE manual transmission w/206k miles... runs like a champ.  I've been very good about servicing my car.  I noticed shifting into 1st gear has become difficult when I'm going to take off... original clutch, had gear lube last changed at 140k miles.  The clutch isn't slipping or grabbing or anything like that.  It just started doing it the other day.  It's operating all normal, except when I go to put it into first to take off, I have to put it to 2nd, then up to first because it's not easing into 1st like it's always done.  2nd gear is fine and it could be me, but 2nd seems a bit tight as well.  All the other gears are fine.  The gears aren't grinding at all either, and I have the pedal pressed to the floor when I shift.  I've never had any clutch work done.  My rack was diagnosed as 'damp' and needs to be replaced (in one mechanic's opinion), but it's not a critical situation from what I've been told.  Other than that, I can't think of anything else that may help you in answering my query.  I've read a bit into my situation, and I cannot find anything to help me troubleshoot this issue.  Also, is this motor non-interference?  If the timing belt snaps, what kind of damage will it do?  I've changed the belt at 150k miles and used Toyota parts of course.

Thanks for your time!  I appreciate the expert service!!!

Answer
The clutch system has two hydraulic cylinder, a master and a slave cylinder, one or both may have a leak, check the master cylinder reservoir level, if it's low and you have to add fluid there is a very good chance that there is a leak.
If the timing belt breaks there will be no other damage to the engine, it's non-interference.