After putting a new tail panel and practically everything else back on our '70 Cuda, we found that the lock rod was about a 1/4" too short for some reason. Went to the hardware store and bought a 3/16" diameter rod and made one to the length I needed. That's the easiest solution, and the rod will be under $2. You can also cut the one you have, put the right angle bend in it, and you've saved two dollars.
