Dave,
That's a pretty good setup. I've watched the install of one. Fairly straightforward, and it shifted pretty well. (my preference is the long original shifters). Also refered to as the Lizard shift kit, after the guy on rennlist that first put it together. Call the folks on the phone to talk about it.
Basically, as you said, the front rod is disconnected and can be strapped near the front of TT so it doesnt rattle around with a big zip tie. The shifter straddles the tunnel opening. You kinda center it per instructions and mark the tunnel to drill a few holes. As I recall, the only complaint was lack of a template for locating holes. Minor issue.
Some links. Video link is gone. Bronze bushings, a separate project by Jadz for the back coupler, didn't pan out though. (I still run a set though, not worried about the little vibration.)
Lizard Short Shifter - Demo Video - Rennlist Discussion Forums
http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/928-forum/710362-lizard-short-shift-kit.html
http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/928-forum/715884-lizard-shifter-installation-tips.html
http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/928-forum/718519-manual-transmission-gear-lube.html