I have the Lightning Rods too, but when ARH installed my large tube headers they had to remove the trans to column linkage that activates the neutral safety & reverse light switch at the base of the column. I should have bitched and made them correct the header fitment so it would go back in...it all worked with the Hooker long tubes that were in previously but they did hang down lower...oh well ancient history.
I looked at different ways to re do the trans to column linkage with threaded rod, and cabling but in the end just left it as is. I thought about doing the micro-switch option, but never got around to it and really didn't want to do any drilling/cutting or welding to the OEM 4 speed Lightning Rods setup. Naturally it isn't optimal, but I can manually turn my steering column cover and activate the reverse lights to pass light check for state safety inspection once a year.
I recently picked up the GSS-3000 from Dakota Digital but haven't installed it yet. Not terrible for about $100 or so.
It attaches directly to the transmission manual valve lever and has a remote module to provide gear position outputs for their "P R N OD D 2 1" indicator panel. I haven't installed it yet, but it also includes NSS and REV light functionality. I have the LED gear indicator plate, but I may be upgrading to Holley Digital Dash down the road in which case I can use the GSS-3000 signal as an INPUT to the Holley Dash and create a nice virtual PRNDL gauge. Maybe I'll get motivated one of these weekends to crawl under there and get it installed...
Dakota Digital manufactures digital instrumentation and accessories for the automotive, motorcycle and car audio enthusiast.
www.dakotadigital.com