While I have my FB shifter out, I noticed a wear groove on the pivot ball. In your experience, is it worth refurbishing the wear mark? Or should I just ignore it and re-assemble? I was thinking of filling the groove with a spot weld, then grinding and polishing smooth. But...if it won't make a difference, then maybe I just buff it up and throw it back in. I did not drive the car much before dis-assembling, but I don't recall the shifter being all that sloppy. Your thoughts?

 

I don’t think that will make a difference if there are no burrs. That is strange wear however. I would check your shifter return spring.