I think you're right. The more I look at this pic, the more wonky things look. I see missing screws for the transmission case, and it looks like the chassis may be tweaked.
Btw, here's how my linkage is set up.
And my return spring...
Looking at it closely it also appears your engine mounting is off, it looks twisted to the left. That will eat that spur quick! Check your engine mounting screws, see if you can realign it.