np435 shifter help .

[broncomania]

got the clutch and np435 in today . put the shifters in. the trans shifter hits the twin stick shifters so i took it out twice and bent it to the side. the last time i pulled it out i must have knocked the inside linkage in gear and now the shifter will not go back in properly. i was told to remove the top cover on the trans and slide it back in neutral. if i do that i'll have to pull the trans back out cause it is literally up against the floor board. i might cut a huge hole in the floor so i can remove the cover. any other suggestions ??????