HI TC - thanks for the tip !
I still have the shifter that came with the car , and same linkage and gearbox - so not really sure what the problem is.
It seems that however the linkage is adjusted , gears 2-5 select fine (and reverse) , but the shift coupler is touching the rear bulkhead when selecting 1st - so not fully engaging.
As I see it the only way to solve this is to somehow shorten the rod from coupler to gearbox ? Does this make sense to you?
BTW - as you asked - power was 190 hp - a little disappointing - but there is bags of torque - and a nice flat curve - so it's plenty for now
I guess it is a pretty low ratio box - pulls like a train in 5th !!