I have a 95 Ford Escort LX and it seems like the transmission or clutch is going out. I don't think its the clutch because it doesn't actually slip gears. Instead it is immensely hard to put into 1st, 2nd, 4th, and reverse. When shifted into fifth gear it grinds as if the clutch wasn't pressed down completely but only momentarily. Still takes 5th gear. It is the only vehicle I have so I don't want to drive it all over town to find out what's wrong with it and burn whatever part is going out into a state of unsalvagability. *made up word 
* I appreciate any and all help.
* I appreciate any and all help.