In regards to the firewall, I had the same problem with my 1200 when I fitted a 180B booster. To overcome this I made up a plate which goes onto the fire wall. With two extra bolts off to the left. It was made from 100 x 5 flat steel bar and really strengthed up the firewall which was flexing. Can email pix if u like.

With the push rod, I modified the fitting which screws on the end. Simply by re-drilling it and cutting off the excess.

Hope this helps