clutch in a Vauxhall Astra SRI, vauxhall astra sri, clutch

Recently I was given a 2nd hand 1992 Vauxhall Astra SRI by a friend. He told
me that the only problem was a clutch that you had to push hard to the
ground before it worked properly, and that I should get it adjusted as soon as
I could. Now I am finding that it is near impossible to get it into reverse
without many attempts and lots of scary graunching.
On ringing the garage they inform me that I may have to replace the clutch
which could cost me around £300. Could you give me some advice as I'm not
sure what damage I may be doing in the meantime.
And should it cost this much - is it worth it?

Answer
Grinding is never good on the gears so I wouldn't drive it until you get it fixed. If once you get it in to gear, the clutch holds when you accelerate, the clutch is good. Sounds more like you have a streched clutch cable or a bad master/slave cylinder, depending which one your vehicle has. Try taking it to a couple of shops and see what they can find for you. Good luck.
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