installing new shift linkage for 700 R4 and column indicator lense

[Murphy IRE]

I have a 71 K20 and a rebuilt 700R4 tranny. It seems the PO never changed the original linkage. I've attached pics of what I have. I can't get the tranny to manually drop into 1st gear. It will only drop as far as 2nd.
My tilt column and linkage are for a 350TH. So I need to pull the old lense (PRND21) and replace with the new (PRND321). I removed the two small screws and the lense doesn't budge! What's the trick?

Also, I ordered a new Lokar linkage kit for a 700R4. In the 1st pic, we did cut some of the column housing away to allow some additional clearance (if needed). Are there any things I need to be aware of or short cuts to help with the install? Thanks in advance!
Pics now attached! Sorry.

[brans72]

no pics are showing up.

[tonypaul]

Im kinda in the same situation- I put in a 4l80e with a new chrome tilt column and a Lokar kit. The rod that they sent was to short so I got some allthread from Loews and fabed it up. I have tried adjusting it a couple times now and it doenst seen to go in low gear either. I think I need to shorten the rod some more and adjust the lever up more.

I hope someone will chime in thats been through this...

[camaney]

I think that the shifter prN321 should be ok. The 3 is also overdrive on my 91 pickup
Posted via Mobile Device

[Murphy IRE]

My linkage kit was short too. I went with a shop cutting and inserting high grade SS to make up the difference. P, D & 1st line up perfectly. The rest are a little off, but she drops into 1st!!!
The reverse neutral switch needs a little adjustment. The reverse lights only work from drive up and not from Park down. She still won't start in neutral. But I really happy with being able to drop it into 1st