Are ball studs on ends of Powerglide kickdown rod suppose to just pop off?

[1967RS/SS]

I’m in the process of installing a Powerglide back in my car and have noticed both ball studs at either end of my kickdown rod pop off so easily.  This is the rod that goes between the kickdown lever and the shifter.

This is the part I’m referring to: https://www.heartbeatcitycamaro.com/18467/67-68-69-Camaro-Powerglide-Kick-Down-Linkage-Rod/

This cannot be normal can it?  I purchased it a couple of years ago but it is new and never been in service.  Should I buy another to replace this one or am I missing something?

Thanks Guys

[KevinW]

No, they should not come out easily.  The pockets are peened to hold the ball loosely.  Maybe you can peen the sides a little?

[1967RS/SS]

Thanks Kevin.  I’ll give that a try and buy another one if that doesn’t work I guess.  Thank you

[David K]

Post a few pictures of this.

[1967RS/SS]

Here is one for now.  Still learning Flickr

https://flic.kr/p/2opeGrS

[David K]

The female receptacle (pocket) is typically where the problem lies.

[1967RS/SS]

It seems if I grab the stud and pull it straight out, the socket holds it tight.  It is when  I pull it out at any angle, other than straight, is when it pops out with little effort.  Even just rolling the rod around and letting the studs dangle, they’ll eventually just fall out