I can try that but I think I already did pretty much the same thing. I have a T-handle on it that is tilted toward the drivers side to force me to pull it towards me.
I don't think it's a matter of missing 2nd (which Ialso did the first time I drove it). When I shift to second under race conditions, it's like there is something in the wayof second gear. If I pull really hard it will go in. The only time it grinds is ifI let the clutch out before it goes in to second.

I will try your suggestion as well and see what happens.

 

Try increasing the throw as well. The shorter the throw, the harder it will be to get into gear. Unless you have them installed wrong, there's absolutely no reason why the CHE piece wouldn't help the problem, let alone cause it.