Convertible top push rod

[Bradster]

I just bought a 97 Boxster with a new top. (I purchased it knowing that the top did not work.) Anyway, I fixed the top and am trying to reinstall the push rod lever on the ball pin, but he connection is not tight enough and the rod just falls off the ball pin on both sides. I have done some research and, apparently, I have the later push rod with the white, versus the red, clip. It does not appear to be cracked or worn and I was wondering if anyone has encountered a similar issue and how it was resolved. I bought new ball pins thinking that the previous owner might have changed them for some reason, but they are the same size.

Thanks.