shifter problem

[FAT TONY]

Alright so i replaced my clutch today and when i went to put the shifter back on i noticed that the rods were welded, it seems that the previous owner shortened the rods which makes it hard to place the shifter back on ..... i didn't notice when i removed the shifter , but now when i went to put it back on i didnt remember how to so i searched a couple pictures and all of them are farther back

here are some pics of mine








i have no problem with it being so close but i just want to add this to it so it wont move around so much when trying to shift


any suggestions are appreciated. after four weeks of having the truck sitting there im really looking forward to being back on the road again