Stuck in reverse...

[Craigwilson]

You could do what I done and put a different box in with a longer 5th gear for lower revs.

That's an option, which box did you put in?

I'm thinking refurb is the best option atm, but it really depends how expensive other options are and the benefits they pose

I put an ATH box in it, fantastic gearbox my original was an AUG.

[Craigwilson]

Here's a list of gearbox codes with the details of the box incase your thinking of buying one, just make sure the driveshafts are the same size etc.
http://www.rabbitgtipage.com/transmission.html

[Gambit]

Stick with an AUG box, if 5th really bothers you you can swap it out easy enough, it can even be done with the box still in the car. ATH aint a close ratio box.

Try to find someone local to look at it who knows something about mk2s could well be something quite simple

[Waspy]

Yeah, I am actually pretty happy with the box (ratios etc), however changes could be a gamble at times and second crunched when cold, and now obviously it is stuck in reverse. So I think a refurb would be nice anyway. I will of course get it checked out first though

Thanks for all the help so far guys!

[Waspy]

Okay, so I now have a new question for you all.

I just got into the car to turn it over, it has been stationary for 4 days now since it got stuck. I put the clutch in, started the engine and just for good measure gave the gear stick a quick wiggle, and well... it came straight out of reverse and I was able to select first and away it went.

Now, originally I thought the shifter had gone into neutral and left the box in reverse. However clearly it was always in reverse but felt like neutral as there was so much movement. I have no idea why suddenly it decided to come out, but I am bloody happy.

My actually question is why is the likely cause, and what can I do to prevent it happening again?

[Gambit]

is it the box, or the linkage is the issue? sounds more like the linkage, and more so the ball & cup pivot at the bottom of the gearstick.

id also be inclined to drain & replace the gearbox oil now.

[Waspy]

is it the box, or the linkage is the issue? sounds more like the linkage, and more so the ball & cup pivot at the bottom of the gearstick.

id also be inclined to drain & replace the gearbox oil now.

Had it remained stuck in reverse I would have said the box, but since that is no longer the case I am going with linkages. So I am thinking I will replace them all.

Good shout on the oil, any recommendations? 

[Gambit]

If the 2nd gear crunch is bad then redline mtf will dampen it down, otherwise castrol 75w90 will do the job

[Waspy]

If the 2nd gear crunch is bad then redline mtf will dampen it down, otherwise castrol 75w90 will do the job

Great, thanks!

I've been looking for a full linkage repair kit, obviously ebay comes up, but I am a little sceptical about the quality? Any of you guys know the best place to get one?
Cheers