the input shaft does not wiggle (well veryverylittle). the nipple that is pinned to that shaft is wiggling. not much at that diameter, but is significant at the shifter.
my gut feeling for repair is to drill/ream the pin hole larger and new fitted pin.
just the location would require right hand drill and a steadier hand than mine
without the gate is the way to go, BUT just for looks, I want a gate