The distance from 3rd to 4th at the level of my ruler laid across the flattened boot is 40-45mm. I can't measure it more precisely because of the boot flopping around. (I have more excess boot than you because my lever is shorter.) But I don't believe my SSK really has 40-50% shorter throws than stock. It's more like 25% shorter.
Anyway, I have to admit, I'm glad to see that davemohan is confused in exactly the same way I am.
