Thanks guys for all the props....
How ever no matter how i try i always have my shift linkages for the 2wd - 4wd bend or break. i broke down and tried the trail gear double shifter and welded on tabs to convert to linkage style shift (never cut actual levers) i dont know if all marlin cases this 4wd shift rail is a pain to shift or not. i dont get it. the low range i can shift all day long with my setup but the 4wd shift rail is so stiff it bend my 3/8" shift linkage.

i couldnt afford to have my truck down for any longer so went with a hole in the floor. Chime in on anything this far and ill answer what i can.

 

R&D is really trial and error, learn from what didn't work and move on. Your linkage must be putting some weird stress to be bending 3/8 rod. Do you have pics of this?
Don't give up, keep moving forward.