we were binding up... under the gear shift...

So, when watching someone shift through the gears from under the car, for some reason the reverse lever coming down from the gear shift above will bind on the 1-2 lever, but only when the linkage rod is there. I've adjusted the angle of the screw-on eye+grommet of the reverse linkage rod, and tried bending it - but I can't figure out why (even without the clip installed under the gearshifter) it pulls the reverse lever into thinking its 1st and gets stuck. That's what appears to be happening. Is this a spring issue in the gear shift mechanism above the linkages maybe? Maybe I just need to bend that rod way out to provide clearance b/t the two... I'll let you know if we figure it out. Meanwhile, we'll just have to be strategic about parking....haha. Any other suggestions about that mechanism are appreciated. Thanks!

Pictures of a very hoopty hybridization will come shortly, after the Bosnian Brothers have figured out engine shocks. Lets just say, velcro ties and electrical tape have become my very good friend...