Is a whistling\whirring sound normal when releasing clutch in 1st gear? I noticed this sound recently and hadn't before. It goes away as soon as I am in gear.

 

This sounds like the infamous dying Squirrel issue. Early 2k2's (mine being one of them) needed a replacement clutch bearing (and plate I believe). There is a TSB for this. You only need to make the noise happen for them. I found it pretty easy to do when the clutch got warm (ride the clutch on a hill). Hope this helps.

 

Excellent... looks like i'll be getting a new part All about the warranty! Dying squirrel haha.