I'm sure you got the "Don't force it!" message, so I'll save my breath...but as far as the scuffing, I move it to the side ranher than roughly over the safety catch. Try it, you'll find it much easier to shift in as well as save the clear plastic. I alwo have problems intermittently selecting the PTO, but found that engaging it and trying it again solves the problem. Never had much problem that I can recall about actually engaging it though...