Wico Mag trip lever HELP!

Hello all;

Yes, I have posted this on the Smokstac board, but so far no response so I thought i'd try here. I have an engine that uses the Wico EK mag and the type 2 trip mechanism shown in the picture. The problem is the entire mechanism can be adjusted with a bolt and slid forwards or backwards to advance/retard the timing. I can either get the timing set correctly OR I can get a good hot blue spark but not BOTH at the same time. I think that my latch or trip rod is too short and it looks to have been ground or cut off on the end.

Can anyone measure their square rod from the end of the spring (closest to the head) to the end and tell me what you get? Mine measures 2 1/4" long. I think another 1/4" - 3/8" would be great for me but I want to double check with someone before I go welding stuff on to mine. Thanks.