I'm working on a my friend's Tercel and it feels like the clutch doesn't contact the flywheel until the pedal is really high up, and then seems about to slip. I would assume the pedal needs adjustment but I just recently drove the car before it broke and i can tell that adjustment hasn't been messed with...

The linkage and hydraulic lines appear to all be fine right up to the transmission where it contacts the lever, and i can move the lever with my hand, so it's not frozen halfway engaged. I'm a little confused how this could have happened so suddenly, my only conclusion is that maybe the throwout bearing is somehow lodged or stuck? or the clutch/pressure plate has come loose?

Any help would be tremendously appreciated.

-Steve

Just replaced my clutch. Mine was engaging all the way at the floor and was slipping. Sounds to me like the only way you'll be sure is to take it apart and replace the clutch. If your clutch plate is loose, you should see visible signs of marring (I would think you would hear it, too).

BTW, I went ahead and replaced both drive axles, wheel bearings, shocks/struts while I had the tranny out. It took me about 15 hours-total and no special parts.

Rob