Crunchy reverse

[MarkyD1977]

Hi All.

I have a 2016 Peugeot 308 Gt line 2.0 with manual 6 spead box.

Clutch fell depressed, its sometimes a bit crunchy into reverse. Not every time but often. If I put it into 2nd then reverse, it's smooth as silk. Also through 1 to 6 when driving normally, it's fine.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to the cause? Is it common? And why does going to 2nd initially secto solve the problem?

Your expertise appreciated.

Thanks.

[CitroJim]

In my experience of, admittedly much older PSA gearboxes, it's not unusual...

The reverse pinions are generally straight-cut and do not have the benefit of any synchromesh to ease engagement. Often the reverse idler pinion is on a slide into engagement arrangement and baulking is common if it happens that the teeth on the idler are not quite in line with the teeth on the pinion it is to engage with. As you find, the action of going into first or second before re-engaging reverse works well as the pinions find themselves in a new position and are able to slide into engagement.

That all else is good would tend to rule out the clutch, particularly if it 'bites' about halfway along its full travel.