Re: actuator rod
Stock setting is (with the rod off the pin) that you should be able to see 7/8 of the pinface through the hole of the rod. Layman's terms = you should barely have to pull the rod to get it onto the pin. So, there should always be (at least) a little tension on the rod when it hooked to the pin, but since it's held back by a spring/diaphragm, you can pull it and move it by hand some.
If you're just trying to move the rod in/out of the WG canister, then yes, you should be able to move it (with some resistance) in and out an inch or so.
Hood