this is one of those things which could be real cheap or not. the first thing to check is to take the clevis pin out of the clutch rod where it goes into the side of the machine and move the pedal up and down without the clutch attached. does it move freely and without binding. also check the whole clutch linkage when it is all connected and look for anything fowling its movement like part of the linkage having to move past a hose etc which could make it bind up a bit.
next with the rod disconnected see if you can move the lever going into the clutch housing. you will need a pipe for extra leverage. see if it feels tight. if you cant find anything i would say its time to call in a expert. good luck.
