[HMeeder]

Well. since you don't currently have the motor in, that eliminates the mounting bar as the culprit. If I remember right, the bar has to pass through an 'eye' that is inside the tunnel. Take a mirror and flashlight and see if you can see that 'eye' You could also use that mirror and flashlight and a pal to feed the rod through. Maybe you can catch the rod in the act of defiance.

Good luck

------------------
Herb
'72 1.7 Tangerine 'Teen
'74 2.0 Red Rustmobile