So what you're seeing is that instead of running parallel to the shell, the t/rods have to angle out to the threaded ferrulle in the lugs. While it's not ideal, it's not that uncommon and may or may not be a problem.
Based on what you've said, the issue appears to be centred around the lugs..........if they have "nylon" seating washers, they may be too thick otherwise it's likely to be the actual lug dimensions. Later on I'll check a couple of varieties of lugs I have here.
