6x4 making noise and grinding.

[Rio_Grande]

I finally got my new/old gator going.

At first start up it is really hard to shift into gear. High speed grinding like there are no synchronizes. Which there may not be. This goes away after a few minutes of idling. Then it shifts fairly reasonably.

When I get it in gear I get some noise assuming from the clutch that sounds very similar to a bad engine knock.

Any info is greatly appreciated. I am happy to have it running just need to get these issues squared away.

[Dane]

Since you are having trouble shifting into gear but it gets better after a few minutes of idling I'm wondering if the primary/drive clutch is partially engaging? Is the engine idling faster at first but idles slower after a few minutes? When you start it and it's still in neutral take a look a the drive belt to see if it's moving.

Are you getting the knocking sound only when in gear? Does it knock when you are in gear but not moving or only when you are driving?