I also have the same problem. I just replaced the clutch myself. After comlete I assumed that I had made a mistake so I removed the transaxle again to take a look and every thing was fine. New release lever, bearing, ball stud, pressure plate, and disc.
I also thought that the release cylinder may have failed from the additional pressure of the new parts butt(this id a handy trick). I pulled the timing viewing window open (little rubber gromett that just pulls right out located on the top of the transaxle) and was able to feel the position of the release lever. I then had my buddy hold down the clutch pedal to see if the release lever moved and how much. It moved about an inch and a quarter from the engaged position ending up about 3/8 inch away from the presure plate.
This is a very difficulkt problem because every thing seems to be functioning properly. It just won't fully release.
Does any body know how much release lever travel is required for the clutch to fully release or how close to the presure plate the back of the release lever should end up when the clutch is fully depresed?
If someone knows the answers to the questions above we can check through our timing inspeciton view hole without removing the transaxle again.
Even though after doing mine twice in a row I can get it off and back on pretty quick.