Sticky gearshift

[Willid1]

I have a 1.4 Astra and it has always had a very obstructive gearbox.

Sometimes when it is cold it feels as if the gearstick is about to break when getting it into first gear.

When changing up it's generally better than changing down but 3rd to 2nd is generally the worst shift.

The box makes no funny noises, and has ATF in it (as recomended by mechanic friend - made no difference to the change quality)

I have done almost 80k in this car and it's exactly the same now as it was when I got it.

Is this a common problem?. I can't believe they designed it like this but then the rest of the car is not exactly quality engineering http://www.turbosport.co.uk/images/smilies/laugh.gif . Shouldn't complain too much or the fickle hand of fate will visit.

Thanks for any help

David

[andy]

i know this may be of little relevance, but i had a vauxhall nova 1.2 carb, it was a d plate with a 5 speed box and a rev counter (quite rare for the engine size and year, so i have been told) and even if i tried to, i would not go into first gear unless it was completely stopped, apart from that it was very precise and tight but with an unusually long throw on it, even after 130k miles, as for your current inquiry, i have'nt got a dan mcgroo