Some days when it's hot if I want to go from 1st to reverse for instance _ nup not gonna happen. Only way to do it is turn the car off jam it in reverse turn the car on & away I go. That sux.
Do you feel a drag when you start it back up? Like if the clutch is dragging or partially engaged? If so, check the adjustment. If it is adjusted correctly, (and you've eliminated the fluid) I bet it's a defective pressure plate or pilot bushing issue. I've had both go bad and what you are describing is exactly what my cars were doing.
