The Bandit

I'm working on my first Mopar, a 73 Challenger with a 318/904. I have the original shift linkage in the car, but I might be missing a piece. The rod that goes through the transmission tunnel doesn't turn it just moves back and forth when I try to shift. Is there a piece that keeps the rod straight up?

Also, I took the car for it's first test drive and when I get on the gas pedal hard, then it slams into reverse. It's like the kick down linkage is backwards or something. Instead of downshifting it shifts right into reverse. If anyone can help out with these problems I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.