Saxo powered mini.

[custom-decals2012]

So today I'm struggling with the gear linkage setup, Ive had to cut and re weld the rods but still not getting all gears and there to tight and close together, I've also modified the gear selectors which I've had to make shorter.
My gear linkages go on angles, do they all need to be perfectly straight from ball socket to ball socket.
I've ordered some adjustable gear linkage rods hoping there m8 thread so I can cut and adjust m8 threaded bar until I get the length right.

Is there any way I can us a Universal joint UJ instead of the rubber ball.