linkage problem

I just put my 4 speed back in my 67 Cuda after rebuilding it. I'm anxious to see how it drives but when I try reverse she just doesn't want to shift. First is okay, second is tough to get, third and fourth are great.
I read in the service manual that a special tool is used to line up the slots in the bottom of the shifter. Since I didn't have the tool, I used a dowel to line them up. This was when it was still on the bench. Maybe that didn't work?
The car shifted okay ( just okay) before the rebuild. The linkage rods have been bent, broken and welded over time. Maybe I need to order new ones.
I'm gonna tinker some more with it, but any suggestions would be appreciated.