Well I kind of found out what was wrong with mine. Seems the tranny was about to go out. I lost reverse and barely have 1st gear now. As soon as I start the car it sounds like there are ball bearings rattling around, and it's very loud. It goes away as soon as I push the clutch pedal in. I towed the car to a shop last night and they are going to take a look at it next Monday. Looks like it'll be a Shep or Bushwacker tranny for me

 

Absolutely it could be something other than the clutch - definitely a good avenue to pursue. But the OP sounds like he's checked on some of the likely options before going this route.

 

At this point, it seems that first gear is the problem. Because of that, I have removed the trans and sent it to John Shepherd. I am positive it wasn't some other part of the car rattling. Thanks.

Justin

 

i have that tob ticking noise. it only occurs while its full warmed up. symptoms is as same as the others, engage the clutch noise goes away or gear(s) engaged. let go of the clutch in neutral ticking just keeps on going. its embarrissing honestly...tob would be the prob...but with a new tob the clutch would be the culprit or installed wrong.

 

Yours might be first gear, but in most cases, I wouldn't be surprised if the rattle is related to your throw-out bearing. That's a classic symptom -- rattles when engaged, stops when you feather the clutch a little, putting pressure on it...

Don't blame the clutch until you check out the TOB.