47-55.1 Tie rod questions

[51 3600]

The shop that installed my engine and drive train also installed the rack and pinion, a '93-'99 Camaro power unit. Stock length of that r&p is 52.6" which is way to long for my application. I have approx. 47" from steering knuckle to steering knuckle holes. So they shortened the inner tie rods and welded on another threaded section to achieve a workable (I didn't say correct) solution. Although my OCD doesn't like it (ugly and the two pieces aren't even welded together straight) I guess it will work unless it raises eyebrows among the members here.
My main concern is the angle of the tie rods. From what I've read downward angle is ok as opposed to upward, but the angle seems a bit much. Have tried to come up with ways to mount the outer tie rods on top of the knuckle instead of the bottom. Have searched for angled inserts but can only find references to 3/4 and 1 ton GM inserts which seem extreme for my purposes. Local speed shop suggested boring out the knuckles and using heim joints on top of the knuckle instead of outer tie rod ends.
I've always got questions so once again could use input, suggestions, answers, recommendations, ideas from the crew here. As always, thanks.






Outer tie rod not tightened in this pic.