Slap Stick shifter handle function?

[SteveSS]

We are getting close to being done with the 71 Charger 500. I went to check to make sure the trans was in N or Park and the thumb button was depressed and wouldn't pop out. I took it apart and I could depress the skinny rod inside the shift lever and change gears but I wondered what was wrong with the handle. Is it missing parts? Any ideas as to why it's not working?

 

[MoparLeo]

Just get a new one, They are still available for around $50

 

[MoparLeo]

The return spring is in the shifter shaft.

 

[SteveSS]

Yes the spring in the shaft is functioning but it's not working at the button level..I wasn't sure if the handle was missing a part. Maybe it just got misaligned.

 

[1 Wild R/T]

Looks to me like the button/fulcrum is upside down....
How can it push down on the rod in it's current configuration..

 

[SteveSS]

Thanks, I'll try it the other way. I may have just put it together wrong for the picture. It came apart once I took the screw out and the bezel off.