87 transmission hard to shift when hot

[seabob4]

87' 5-speed, shifts great around town. I drive 9 miles at about 55-60, in 5th, shifts great, then a 15 mile drive, at 65, then downshift, and there is a marked reluctance to go into gear, and a marked reluctance to go into gear as I accelerate, not the typical snikkering, put it in gear with a finger tip. Cool, she does fine, hot, not so good. Any ideas? Could the clutch not be engaging all the way? Would adjusting the pushrod on the top of the clutch pedal help? She has 125,000 on her, and is original clutch, pressure plate, etc. as far as I know. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Beancooker]

My guess is clutch adjustment, or the clutch itself. I don't know if it's a hydraulic clutch or not, but if it is, have you checked the clutch fluid?

[seabob4]

Yes, have checked Clutch Fluid, DOT 3 brake fluid, topped off.

[maxhopper]

I would first check out the shifter mechanism (and any related bushings). I would definitely look at the clutch second.

[A.Tech]

The only thing I can think of is what they said about sometime being loose or a bad syncho not slowing down the gear enough to make them mesh. Does it make a grinding sound when it does it? Do you have to force it with good strength?

[seabob4]

Well, that sounds a bit like what I'm experiencing. Now, today, she did just fine, although the syncro aspect has crossed my mind. I know when she is cold and then just registering on the temp gauge, she shifts smooth as butter. By the way, do you know what the cost is for a shop to pull the transmission and look into it? Thanks for everyone's help!