Diagnosing selespeed issue

[Cowie]

G'day all,
I have some friends that have recently inherited a pair of 147 selespeeds, from an Alfa mechanic in Toowoomba who is not interested in working on the selespeed (probably understandable). They would like to get one going as they could use another car, and have a family history of Alfa ownership.
Both cars were driven to their house, but I'm told they have issues.
The pick of the two won't select 1st gear, however it selects 2nd and drives off without much drama (obviously with some extra work performed by the clutch).
I have not driven the car myself as yet, so just going on what I have been told.
So my question is, what would I be checking in order to diagnose the issue/s and or provide more info to someone that knows these things? 
I would like to help them out, but I figure that i will need some info on what to look for before I go and drive the car.

I have a 147 Gta, but I am not familiar with the selespeed.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Even if there is someone out there who doesn't know, but knows who I should talk to that would be great.

Regards,
Tristan

[bazzbazz]

Hi Tristan,

I have sent you a PM. Give me a call and hopefully I may be able to solve your problems, I specialise in Selespeed systems.

Baz