The only thing I can think of is that you didn't get the rods installed the proper way. They're in a bind when the panel is installed.
I'm figuring they're binding up somewhere, but it's hard to figure out where without being able to see or feel it...that's why I was trying to see if anyone else had similar problems at any point. Not a huge deal...I've been building motors and working on cars since I was 14...I'll figure it out eventually.The only thing I can think of is that you didn't get the rods installed the proper way. They're in a bind when the panel is installed.