I have to agree with Hotrod... it certainly does sound like something from the fork side....
You mentioned that you have to "crash" into reverse. Having not worked on a T-5 yet (soon.... and I can't wait!) but if it is a 2 cable, then your 1/2 and reverse are very closely linked due to them being at the extremes of the cables.
Can you do a cable adjustment? Now given the fact that your car wants to move forwards in 1st, obviously you are having a disengagement issue.... on the clutch pedal that you have installed... can you adjust it out towards you?
