What diameter is the pushrods and how long do you expect it to be?
Some calculations for buckling might be in order. My SWAG is it looks a little flimsy as is at the appropriate length shown.
You could use a piece of tube about 1" OD with bushings welded in the end for the connections. Within reason on length I don't expect that would buckle.
If you just want to try it have someone press on the pedal with all their might and watch the pushrod, then with your hand try to deflect the center with moderate pressure, if it bends try a larger diameter.
Grigg
