gear box and clutch

[mika jones]

i have a ford escort j reg and it is quite difficult to get it into first gear and sometimes second.i had a new clutch fitted and have done 170 on it.The problem seems to be worse if i leave my handbrake on for to long .once i have drove for a bit it also sometimes has a burning smell.any ideas would be gratefully recieved.

[v64paul]

i don't think the problem with the handbrake is connected to the gear selection problem, in fact it can't possibly be. the two seperate issues are just that, although if the handbrake is sticking or the brakes binding, that would kill the clutch sooner rather than later. if you fitted the clutch, check again if someone else did, take it back. if the car is a '91 j reg, the clutch cannot be adjusted...

[Kev_UK]

The burning smell can be either from the clutch plates or from the rear drum brakes (or disk pads) binding.
Try driving down the road a little, stopping then go to the back wheels and sniff. .. if the burning smell is strong from there its the brakes binding.