Removed the clutch again inspected did not find an issue, drove the car again, same problem violent shudder going into first gear but noticed no shudder in reverse or starting off in 2nd gear.
That to me indicates something sensitive to more/ less torque. Check motor mounts, rear suspension and clutch linkage. You need a second person to check clutch linkage, looking for "lost movement" etc.
Something you might try.....even temporarily.......is to "rig" a torque strap to cinch the engine firmly down on the driver's side. This needs to be substantial, but not pretty. Build/ rig a rough bracket to fasten to an upper water pump/ intake bolt maybe incorporate an eye bolt to tension, and a chain, lots of ways down that road.
