I own a MKII 16v ('92) and recently getting into second gear has been difficult. It is a low mileage example, but it grinds in reverse too. I bought it off an elderly lady who was in need of a hip replacement! so originally thought that she hadn't been depressing the clutch far enough when selecting a gear - but have since heard that this is a problem with MKII's. Any advice gratefully received!
Try changing the gear box oil, and check the tension of the clutch cable. Does it happen at low or high speeds?
And the position of the shift rod. I have the same problem on mine, but the shift rod needs resetting slightly to the left.
It happens mostly when the car is warmed up - generally after about 10-15 miles have been covered. Sometimes when I disengage reverse gear and de-press the clutch again - it sometimes actually doesn't crunch.
