Believe it or not but my 52panel had the rod like Denny's picture. I checked my notes it was a two piece deal...meaning there was the piece of wire with the spring hooking to it.
...and I checked my overall length tonight and it is 50 3/4" from the end of the "fixed" clevis to the very end of the threaded end.
Don't know if this helps any, or anyone, just trying to contribute.
