Clutch problems? High Pitched Rattling

[Mikeepoo]

I have a '96 240SX it currently has about 58K miles on it. When it hit about 50K I had my clutch replaced with an STP clutch and at first everything was great.I've noticed gradual dimished performance. One of the problems that I encountered is that the shift stick became more difficult to put into gear, it's almost like I have to force it over an obstacle to get it into any gear. Once it's in, the clutch doesn't appear to be slipping. Another is a squeaking sound when I press or depress the clutch,it can be heard whether the engine is turn off or on. Also, I noticed that the car would have a much more difficult time accelerating from lower RPMs than before. For example, if I would put it in 3rd gear and the RPMs were about 2000, the car would barely accelerate at all (before that wasn't a problem).

Finally, about a week ago I started hearing a high pitch rattling sound, especially within the first 10 minutes of driving. The rattling is heard when I put the car in first gear, or 2nd gear. I can't hear it in 3rd or above.

I just moved to SF and don't really know any mechanics around here, but I would great appreciate some advice on what you think may be going on with my car.

Thanks so much,Mike

[bendychicken]

The sqeeking noise: Probably linkage realated since you said it happens with the engine on or off. My bet is there is no grease on the transmission input shaft or the slave cylinder piston tip.

The rattling noise: throwout bearing. can't tell ya exactlly what about it, but i bet that's it.

rough shifting: sounds like your clutch is not compleatly disengaging. Did you resurface your flywheel when you changed the clutch? If it's warped slightly it could cause that rough shifting.. Air in the lines maybe?

[NISTECH]

is the squeeking sound inside the car or outside? inside i would say pedal bushings or clutch master cyl. outside i would say the slave cyl as bendy said or it could be pressure plate is weak.