I just picked up a 1971 Deserter GT. Of course when I test drove it it ran fine. Now it is having trouble going into gear. It really has a hard time finding second gear. Any thoughts on what I should look at would be great.  Thank you ahead of time.

1. Shifter adjustment. 2 small bolts. Loosen then and move it front or back. Small changes make big differences.
2. Shift coupler broken. Under inspection plate in rear of chassis. Take a look at it.
3. Shift rod bushing. Small plastic bushing under shifter. Remove shifter, look toward rear of car and there should be a small plastic bushing. Its likely missing. Can be a pain to replace.
4. Tranny issue

I would try #1 first.

Make sure to try all of the above. Is the problem only second gear? For some reason VW trannys have a penchant for eating second gear synchros. But try and check everything Jeffery pointed out before condemming the gearbox.

brad