JD #5 Mower Expert Needed

1. Last year I had trouble clogging up on the outer end of the bar (Sections and ledger plates were in good shape) I installed a special section that has the extra small section built in as one piece. (Two triangles) It extends out past the end of the bar when it cycles. I don't know if this is correct, but it sure worked. Does anybody know what should be on the very end of the bar?

2. According to the operator's manual, you adjust the guards with a hammer until the ledger plates are close to the sections. (The plow bolts let the guards pivot) I have had trouble getting my ledger plates close enough to the sections. Yes, my hold-down clips are good. Even though plow bolts are used, the design of the guards I have won't let the guards stay tilted when tightened. Maybe the original JD guards are a little different? Yesterday I finally put shims under the guards on the bottom back side so they would tilt. I am puzzled about this situation. Cut hay yesterday and it worked fine.

Thanks for any input you have.

Mark