We are having problems with the gear box on our Alpine mark iv. The symptoms are that the gears crunch on downwards shift from 4th to 3rd and 3rd to 2nd. The problem is worse when the car has warmed up after about 5 miles. The gear box looks relatively new although is correct for a mark iv i.e. non syncro on first gear. Initially I thought the syncros were worn but as the box looks relatively new am wondering whether the problem is with the clutch not disengaging fully? The clutch master cylinder is brand new and I have blead the system. The movement of the piston only appears to be just over an inch. Any ideas as to where it could be box or clutch ????? Thanks.

The Alpine are a Series of cars not MKS. £10 FINE TO CLUB FUNDS.

dibs

Where does the clutch start to take up when pulling away? It should not be too near the floor or that may be your problem.

Can you avoid a crunch by flooring the clutch when changing gear?

The looks of the gearbox are no indication of internal condition, as it may have just been cleaned up. Even if it has been reconditioned, there is no guarantee it was done properly, with good parts.