won't go in gear!

[marz92]

Moved my old 1990 S3 to clean it today and noticed it was difficult to get into reverse when started.
It was making that gear crunching noise when trying to get into reverse. In the end, switched engine off, put into reverse, clutch pedal down, restarted engine and hey presto, it moved! Then it didn't like first gear, pulled away in second.
Not being a mechanically minded, my question is: How serious is this? Is it time to have the gearbox replaced/reconditioned etc or is there a simple 'quick fix' remedy. I have noticed it getting worse over the months, but not this bad that I had to stop the engine to put in reverse gear.

[TVRleigh]

Have you checked your clutch fluid.
Also it normaly best to select 2nd before reverse.

[icraigmy]

Paul, these are similar symptoms I had before the clutch went. Difficult to engage gear, especially reverse.

[tempus]

Check you are getting full travel on the slave cyl. if no bleed slave, if yes clutch is wearing out,short term fix adjust rod on actuator.Tempus

[P100]

How long had it been left??

Sometimes the clutch plate rusts onto the flywheel which does not release when you press the pedal.

When you put it in gear with the clutch depressed it releases (hopefully without damage) and all will be well.

Good Luck

Roy

[marz92]

Thanks Roy, but it has shown signs for the last few months, but nothing serious. Used it on Saturday all day and it got me from A to B.

Thanks guys too for all your input, It's really helpful to have the experts giving advice.

[TVRleigh]

marz92 said:

Thanks guys too for all your input, It's really helpful to have the experts giving advice.

Experts I would not go that far.