UK Car Repair: Classic Mini (1985) transmission gearbox, transmission gearbox, ratio gearbox

Question
QUESTION: I cannot engage the reverse gear, although 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th speed gears are OK. It is the straight cut / close ratio complete set, installed into the rod-shift type casing. What could be the problem? I wonder if the transmission was fitted with 'reverse gear lockout for remote type gear levers' as this gear set may possibly have come from a competition/racing car. I overlooked to check this item during the rebuild and I do not wish to strip the engine & transmission assy if possible. In the event that I have no choice but to strip the assy again, how do I recognise the locking devise or where is it actually located/fitted.

ANSWER: It's at the gearstick, the reverse is usually - push down to open gate, move lever left and up. Just pull off the gear gator and have a look. You can disconnect the rode from the lever and engage reverse manually by (from back of box, starting in neutral) - turn the gear shaft all the way anti-clockwise, pull it all the way out. It should be in reverse now. If so its the lever that is maladjusted or jammed/wrong one etc. If not.. I dont see how it could be wrong. Do you know who made your box?

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QUESTION: The straight cut/close ratio gearbox is a specialist item, possibly made by Mini Spares Centre. The reverse is still 'lift (or is it 'push down'?) and pull back to the right' as per standard pattern. There is clunk sound but the reverse gear is still not fully engaged. OK, I am new to the Mini gearbox but I'll give it a try and hope for the best.

If I finally decide to dismantle the gearbox, what should I look for to solve the problem?

Answer
I'm sure reverse needs to move further than the other gears so maladjustment is most likely. If adjustment isnt possible anfield you cant select reverse by removing the rod and selecting 'manually' and you decide to take off the box then the selector forks are the first thing to look at. Try to select reverse while watching the shafts and forks. If the fork is bent it will be obvious. Just straighten it a mm or less at a time till reverse is seleced 100% - check the bearings for reverse while ur at it.