Try this idea.
Get a double balled stud (like minature excell makes) and mount the link on the inside ball. The weight/mass of an unsupported control rod is considerable compared to a the original wire/rod supported thru guides, and can be thrown off. The 2nd ball on the stud may be enough to retain the link if it gets thrown of the 1st ball, although the movement might get sticky. Also seen small washers/lg panhead screw combo used to screw on the ball (TT type ball/bead). Washer should not touch the link in normal use but be just big enough to retain the link if it falls of the ball. Either system MAY buy you enough time and control to get down in one piece.

Elmo Te