[Vwdiesel] shift linkage

[peter blake]

  My 5 speed shift linkage has a few undesirable traits:
There is no detent or gate between 1st and reverse. I do
not have to depress the shift lever to engage reverse and
1st is often difficult to find, especially when I need it
in a hurry.  Is this an adjustment issue? Or is this some
part broken or worn out?  I did take the boot off and adjusted
the shift plate? so that the two little holes were aligned
per Bentley, tho I was unable to also center the two bolt
heads in the slots in the plate as also required. Any thots
or hints before I plunge in would be much appreciated.
Peter