Differences btwn 96 and 97+ Nylon Rod in the Auto shifter handle?

I found a 99 auto shifter assembly at the junkyard today and picked it up for $4. Only problem is that the assembly did not have the shifter handle or the Nylon push rod in it any longer. I remembered seeing GoJeeps write up and figured it would be a nice little mod for a rainy day.

I tore the Jeep apart thinking it was under a seat or something but simply could not find it anywhere.

Now to my questions.

Might the rods be interchangable between 96 and 99?
Can I order just the rod itself?

Or

Do I have a $4 shifter paper weight?

Thanks guys!

???????