I've got a 2002 5 spd XL7, recently purchased used with 80k miles.  Now that it is colder, I've noticed that it is IMPOSSIBLE to shift into second gear (while moving) until the truck has warmed up for a few minutes.  The transmission oil has been recently changed.  Once it warms up it is ok, though not the smoothest shifting vehicle I've driven.  I'm wondering what is more likely: the clutch needing replacement or the transmission needing servicing?  The clutch does not seem to be slipping yet, but I think it is about at the end of its travel (it is one of those unadjustable, hydraulic clutches).  Any suggestions??? Otherwise I love this thing. 

Almost sounds like the wrong weight oil was used?

George

I'm not sure what weight is recommended.  I do remember that GM for the Trackers and Suzuki for the Vitaras I think had two different oils recommended.  I do know that you really should use synthetic.  My five speed hasn't gotten any worse since I bought it 4 years ago.  Dave

I put in some stuff labeled "EP 90" which was the only GL4 oil I could find around here.  The carquest guy assured me it was the right weight for the truck.  It's not that the shifter is all that stiff when it is cold... it just hates second.  It'll go into third ok from first. 

Thanks for responding...

Below From FSM as for GL-4 oil Royal Purple  is the only one that could find in the right wieght and it's GL-5 and GL-4 ok

"NOTE:
It is highly recommended to use SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Whenever vehicle is hoisted for any other service work
than oil change, also be sure to check for oil leakage and
status of breather hoses.
If water or rust is mixed in drained oil, be sure to check
breather hose and boot of transmission and transfer.

Gear Oil Specification
Oil grade: API GL-4
Viscosity: SAE 75W-85, 75W-90 or 80W-90

I went ahead and changed my transmission oil again this morning, this time with some AMSOIL 75w-90.  It's supposed to be quite cold tonight, so we'll see in the morning.  Figured I needed to rule that out before taking it in for some major work.

This actually seemed to do the trick.  MUCH better shifting now.