If it's just second gear Id go after the synchro. Here is my favourite method for checking clutch for disengagement. While idling press clutch pedal down for 5 seconds. This give time for disc to stop spining. Engage reverse. No grind means clutch was fully disengaged.

Another thing to consider. The 833 OD was essentially a 1st, 3rd, direct and OD. So a speed shift from 1 to 2 was actually 1 to 3rd which is a super wide ratio change, hence a big rpm change for the synchro to deal with.


69 Super Bee, 93 Mustang LX, 04 Allure Super