newbie transmission rebuild questions

Got a 92 si 4ws straight drive

1st 2nd and 3rd gear grinds and wouldnt go into gear unless I force it in.
Searched around to find out the problem, which happens be worn syncros. (not sure)
Desided to try taking the transmission apart in attempt to replace syncros relying on online threads and a helms on cd, and so far I've got to the point where I need a bearing puller, which I'm planning on getting them tomorrow at autozone.
anyways, I need some insight from any veterans who's done this before.

One of the thing that bothers me at this point is that the syncros look fine. compared to the new ones, they look exactly alike with sharp edges. I dont know for sure untill I take them apart. or are there other reasons why gears grind?

Another thing is that most of the gears seem to be loose. Apart from the syncro sleeves, I can push the gear up and get about a 1/8 inch clearance where helms tells me I need .008. Unless Im doing it wrong.

If there is a thread like this I apologize.
preciate it !