Update:
There is no evidence of leaking brake fluid at the bellhousing. I drained and refilled the trans with Mobil 1 and 2 oz friction modifier. I also bled, re-bled, and re-bled (you get the picture) using a mityvac bleeder vacuum pump. I get no air at all, and refill the master often so no air enters the system. The problem persists.
It feels as though the clutch never fully releases, but what really bothers me is the noises. When letting the clutch out it makes some noise until the clutch is fully engaged. Once the clutch is fully engaged there is no noise. With the pedal depressed (clutch dis-engaged) and in any gear, you hear a noise not unlike a power steering pump low on fluid. With the pedal depressed and in neutral you will hear the noise start as you start to put it into gear, but before it is fully in the gear. In other words it's almost acting like clutch drag, but I don't think the clutch is dragging. The RPM's drop immediately when driving and depressing the clutch pedal. This is driving me crazy.
Terry Haines, I believe you're in MI and work at a dealership or the like..? How close are you to Downriver (Southgate)? I'm going to try to bleeed the system yet again, but I'm getting ready to give up on fixing this myself.
Thanks to all for your input. It's all VERY much appreciated.
