Issues with 3rd gear

[Klobbernator]

I have a few problems. I've done tons of research, the most puzzling one is my transmission:

1. 3rd gear pops out sometimes. Once engaged, it doesn't come out on its own. It only pops out when I am shifting from 2nd to 3rd at low speeds. If I try to hold it in 3rd and release the clutch, it grinds like I am shifting into 3rd without the clutch. Is this a synchro issue? I am about to change my transmission fluid. But I couldn't find any threads with this exact issue.

2. Another problem I'm having. Oil is leaking from the driver's back side of the block onto my axle, which is slinging it all over back of the engine bay. I've seen threads that say one of the bolt holes has access to the oil galley, but I've checked my spare block just to see. Besides the balance shaft bolt, it appears they are all closed off. My camshaft seals are good, just replaced the oil pan (with rtv) and valve cover gasket. So that leaves: the headgasket, oil pump case gasket, crankshaft seal gasket. Anywhere else it can leak out?

Keep in mind I am just coming out of my first rebuild, trying to get all these little kinks resolved. Thanks for your help.

 

[TSI_93]

Do a syncro test.

Sitting on a level surface, with the clutch out, push the shift towards the gear until you feel it start to catch, watch the tach. If the RPMs dip your syncro is working for that gear. If the rpms don't dip then its bad or not pushing the shifter level far enough towards the gear.

 

[TSI_1G_90]

Yep. Synchro