Cannot select first gear

[peajay]

My 2002 1.9TDi has just started to refuse to go into first gear.  I can get all other gears OK but first is almost impossible to engage.  I can get it in with a struggle if I push the stick inwards  as if I am going to reverse and then persuade it into first instead.  I have heard of disengaged selector for first and second gears but this problem only affects first gear ?

[insanitybeard]

Is it equally difficult to get into first with the engine both running and stopped? If so then it may be worth checking the selector cables and mechanism first- worth taking a read here.

[johnnyroper]

Try the basics first, whip battery and tray out to inspect cables and linkage for seizing/broken parts.

It's not unheard of for these gearboxes to have the selector fork securing rivet shear inside the box but that takes out 1st and 2nd if memory serves correctly.

With engine off does the lever go in to 1st position?

[johnnyroper]

Insanity beat me to it..

[peajay]

Yes it is exactly the same with engine running or not, I am wondering if there is any adjustment of the cables possible and how easy is the access ?

[johnnyroper]

They sure are adjustable.

http://workshop-manuals.com/ford/galaxy_2000.75_04.2000-02.2006/mechanical_repairs/3_powertrain/308_manual_transmission-transaxle_clutch_and_transfer_case/308-00_manual_transmission-transaxle_and_clutch_general_information/description_and_operation/diagnosis_and_testing/general_procedures/gearshift_cable_adjustment_vehicles_with_6-speed_manual_transmission_(mt350)/

[peajay]

OK thanks for the info. I will check the linkage, the gear stick does not move very freely so some lubrication may also be required.

[johnnyroper]

Lubricating The selector pivot is also a good idea.

Item in red on picture.