I have a y2000 Mitsubishi Challenger which has had no problems until
recently.

The problem is that when the gearbox (or oil in it?) is cold it is difficult
to change gears and I have to hold the clutch depressed for a while trying
to wiggle the gear in.  However after about 10-15 minutes of driving it
improves and I can change the gears very smoothly with no problem at all.

I thought it may be related to low a level of oil in the gearbox but I had
it checked by Mitsubishi and it was OK.  Of course I did mention the problem
to them but they said that it is because it is always hard to change gears
in a 4x4.  I saw no point in trying to argue with them, knowing very well
that I didn't have the problem before.  Off the topic - sometimes they
really seem to treat customers like dumb mushrooms. :-(

Anyway, I am thinking of changing the oil in the gearbox first guessing that
maybe it is too old (been there for about 4 years) but that is just a stab
in the dark and may not help.  The other thing I am thinking of is that the
clutch is not releasing properly but I have no idea why that would happen
only when cold.
I noticed that when cold I have to depress the clutch all the way and hold
it there for a while when changing gears, but when warm I can comfortably
change the gears even when the clutch is not completely touching the floor.

Has anoyne got any thoughts on this?

I guess my next question is does anyone know of a reliable mechanic around
the Chatswood area (NSW) where I could take my car for the 60K service?
There is the ARB in Artarmon but... I think they may be a bit pricey for
what you get for your dollar.  Or has anyone got a different experience?

Thank you,

Peter