clutch hydraulics/mechanicals

[FMags2@domain.elided]

FWIW, I got my new (previously owned) clutch MC pushrod yesterday.  I 
compared it to the one that was fitted to the MC and welded in several 
places.  My old one measured 4 3/16 inches from the tip to the center of the 
pin hole.  The new unmodified one is a little shorter and measures 3 13/16 
in.  The only reason I can think of that the old one was welded is that it 
may have fatigued and the PO welded it back together with a sleeve around it 
to hold it together.  The length shouldn't matter at all since it is on the 
master cylinder and wouldn't be taking up any mechanical slop anywhere.  The 
only thing the length difference would do is to change where the clutch pedal 
sits in the "at rest" position.  1/4 inch probably isn't even noticable.  
Anybody have any thoughts on this? Do I have it right, or am I all wet?
TIA,
Frank M.