i bought a 83 z28 with a 5.0 ho and a t5. I was told it needed a clutch. Took it to get the clutch replaced to find out its not worn out. The car will start and drive in second, clutch somewhat worked but pedal is soft. It will go into gear with the car not running but not while it is running.

Sounds like the clutch isn't releasing completely.

If its Hydraulic, try bleeding it to get air out. If that doesn't work, may need a new master or slave cylinder (get it cheap from junkyard).

If it's mechanical, check it for anything being bent or loose. then see if you can adjust it.

the linkage is mechanical, i havent had a chance to look at it yet. Could it be something with the transmission?

clutch needs ajusting or replacement.

The symptoms you describe are typical of:
1. Clutch not fully disengaging (more common). Clutch linkage, pressure plate, etc...

2. Synchronizers in the tranny shot (less common). Also typically gives a grinding noise when going into gear with engine running (which you didn't mention).

Of course its pretty tough to diagnose a car you can't see, touch or hear. But, the clutch linkage would be my leading candidate from what you described. Second would be replacing the clutch and pressure plate. At your vehicle's age, its likely to be way overdue.

got the car home(shifted it with no clutch). the adjustment rod is backed all the way out, but it is on a angle so it looks like bar that pushed the rod is bent. Do they sell replacements?

bump

update. i ordered some shock extensions from summit. they were the same size as the adjustment rod. cut the rod and threaded the extensions on. Now the rod has about a 1.5inches of adjustment, and clutch disengages.

cool