In a message dated 8/11/05 11:23:45 PM, rdh24@CORNELL.EDU writes:

<< the Vanagon feels like its clutch is dragging just a bit even with the
pedal pressed all the way in: a little bit hard to force it into gear, reverse
gear wants to grind, and often going into 1st you can hear a "clunk" as the
slack gets taken out of the drivetrain when it slips into gear...  >>

Robert,

These symptoms usually indicate a queefed out pilot bearing.  But, before you
pull the transaxle, make certain the hydraulic line has been purged of air
completely.  Two other things which suggest a dragging pilot bearing are:

1/ If reverse gear can be engaged without a grind after the clutch pedal is
held to the floor for what seems like an inordinate amount of time.

2/ If the engine is revved while trying to engage a balking low gear and the
transmission slips into gear easily at a certain RPM well above idle.

I've not had a throwout lever worn to the point of causing the clutch to
drag, but if you think that could the source of you problem, why not check it by
sticking a shim between the two parts in order to remove some of the freeplay?

George