It isn't really that it is something needed to work, but it should, so it is irritating that it doesn't on one bike when it does on another.
When you are in 3-1 look down to see the flex and stress you are putting on your chain. You should not use this gear combo.
I am guessing your chain is "stretched" and needs to be changed.
I am thinking that your chainlines could be different and that is also why it does not work. When using extreme gears chainline gets to be more important.
Click
HERE to check your chain line.