If the rods have just been plated, I have seen the plating go around the corner and cause the upper bushing to bind on the long reach of the rod, must be removed. Repairing the groves on the notched plate usually bends it down and away from the lever part of the rod - bend it back to contact. The underside if the lever that wears flat is the problem more than the notches because, when worn flat and wide, it bridges the notched groves and slides right over them with no detent.