update, after I removed the shift assist spring 3rd gear was still "hard to find" at high RPM. I just installed a Barton shifter and their 2 post bracket, now there is no problem finding gears at high rpm, power shifting etc. It is now much more fun to drive, the throw is much shorter with this shifter.
It is a bit stiff and reverse requires more effort, but the trade offs are well worth the investment. the shifter and bracket took about an hour to do on the floor in my garage
Multiple kudos to Barton and their shifter...........After install, no miss shifts, as you stated reverse does require more effort, well worth the trade off, with the sloppy stock shifter and bracket.