mk3 2.0 8v gearbox issues...

[KevR]

Hi guys recently picked up a cheap 8v gti as you look under the bonnet down at the gear box there appears to be a cap/plug missing from the top of the box, now i'm no mechanic but i'm guessing thats just not right!! i'm assuming its for an oil filler cap or something?? It also likes to pop out of reverse gear if you reverse quickly??

Any info much appreciated as i clearly know nothing 

Cheers kev

[Wayne]

The cap missing is nothing to worry about, I believe it is an inspection hole for the timing marks, the jumping out of reverse is a sign you gearbox is on its way out.

[MrClifford]

bonesbradly told me that if its popping out of reverse then yes sadly they gearbox is on the way out, but change the oil in it for some fully synthetic stuff and it will last a good 30k+. ive recently changed mine and it has somewhat sorted the problem, gearbox not so stiff from cold and doesnt pop out of reverse so much. if its only just started doing it change ur gearbox oil quick and u wont have to fork out to much $$$ so quickly!

[Len]

Surely popping out of reverse is not a problem as you can always keep a hand on it!

[MrClifford]

Surely popping out of reverse is not a problem as you can always keep a hand on it!

the gearknob doesnt pop out but u hear a big KLUNK and loose power

[Len]

Ah! not just the synchro then!

[KevR]

Cheers guys, worst case scenario i'll just have to get another box.

I'm still concerned about this gaping hole in the top tho? surely it can't be good cause water or anything could get in there!!

[GOLF_MK]

Get another cap from a scrappers, i would - then do a gearbox oil change.