My old grey mare is starting to show it's age. I was wondering if anyone has encountered similar problems with 3rd gear in a manual tranny? Mine seems to have a little problem sliding the shifter in--almost as if it is not getting past the sync gear. I know that my clutch is on the verge of needing replacement (OEM w/ 158k) but I would not think that could influence the feel of the transmission while shifting into third gear. A similar problem that does not seem to be more exagerated is that sometimes I would think I had it in first gear (at a stop light) but then as I accelerate, it would pop out of first. Does not happen very often, but may be related?
Any thoughts?
How about changing the clutch (etc.) myself? Is that too much of an endevor? I just completed a full water pump and timing belt replacement on my own, so I am not a complete novice at working on the 4Runner. Let me know what you think.

 

that sounds like the shifter seat bushing is worn, there are a few threads on this subject....

 

Ya, common problem. Try searching in this forum "shifter seat bushing". You can read all about it.
Here is where Bob shows how to replace it.
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/showthread.php?t=76379

 

Thanks for the redirection guys. I will go out and get this done very soon. As for the other question...
How difficult is it to replace the clutch on this beast?

 

If you have ever held a screwdriver before, do not go and get it done. Get the bushing and do it yourself. Believe me, you have to start somewhere. This is an easy fix, and will cost you next to nothing. Maybe an hour out of your life. We all can afford that. And if we can not, something is wrong.

 

Bob - reread the question. He was asking about how hard to replace the clutch.

My '93 has 189k on the stock clutch. I wouldn't condemn it just for the miles, when it starts slipping then worry about it. There are a few writeups on how to do it - it doesn't sound too complicated, but it's a lot of work.