Had previously cut the elevator pushrod (F-689) to 47 1/2" length but could not insert it into the 'tunnel' without great effort, accompanied by serious flexing. After finally drilling the location for the elevator bellcrank, it was time to adjust the rod ends for neutral. It was soon clear the the pushrod was too long and on the shortest setting could not achieve "neutral" on the bellcrank.
Removed the pushrod threaded end by drilling out the blind rivets at one end, and using a hacksaw to carefully remove enough of the tube to salvage the rod-end. Cleaned up the accumulated primer paint, and shortened the tube by a total of 3/4" (approx) before the new rod length was in the range required. In addition to achieving 'neutral' on the elevator bellcrank, it is also possible to easily insert the revised pushrod into the tunnel without great effort. The bulkhead opening (under seats), does however, still need a minor Dremel tool clean-up to get clearance for the pushrod. It scratches the primer paint on the full up (elevator) position.
Considering the impossibility of backdrilling the rod-end to rivet again, I have decided to have this welded as an alternative suggested in the plans.
