I used to be able to smoothly go into first gear when I was going less than 5 mph in my 96 contour (about 110k miles) but recently when I try to put it into first at this speed I am met with a sharp grinding.
Grinding also sometimes occurs when trying to put it into first from a stop. I solve this problem by sliding the stick into second before attempting to put it in first (this seems to make the process smoother). Once the stick gets into 1st I can put it back in neutral and then go smoothly back to first with no problems. If I take it out of first,put it into neutral, let out the clutch, clutch in again, and try to go back to first, it will grind again.
sorry for making this seem a lot more complex than it probably is. I have very limited car knowledge (as I'm sure you have realized) and would really appreciate any feedback.
