tranny probs

I have a 72 with an L28 w/ close ratio 5spd swap & I have a couple of issues. The 1st is 3rd gear, when I'm driving in 3rd I hear this noise that almost sounds like electrical crackling for the shifter area. Any ideas what this is? The 2nd problem is at least 80% of the time I get grinding or a crunch when I shift into reverse. I just replaced the clutch master & slave cylinders & I think I remember seeing some extended rod kit for the MC. Is that what's goin on here?