Of the three springs in the mechanism the 'right ' spring, which indexes the gear selection, has a 180* bend so apparently it can be reliably accomplished. Certainly the retention would be improved and there may be a tighter, more consistent engagement ( less slop).
I would favor the 180 if there's room for it to hook over the plate. David, what do you think from what you just saw in your box?
BTW, springs are on their way to Thang to arrive in CA Dec. 3, UPS.
(Oh, and isn't that another nice digitally remastered sketch?)