"So do I need to change or modify the rod ?"
Not if it looks like the one in the pics. Sometimes people install it upside down, or the lollipop is upside down. When sitting in the car, the rear of the shift rod should kick to the left. The lollipop should rise towards the front, like in the pic. You said your shift rod was closer to the ground than mine? Do you have the old or new style shifter from Classic Performance? I specifically worked with Andrea to come up with the new design because it bothered me how much the original short shifter hung down under the car. Did you remove the shields on the sides of the shifter hole under the car? I found them to interfere with the short throw shifter. Also, check the condition of your lollipop, is it splitting or separating? I made an all metal one for my car, but a good condition rubber one should work fine!
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