The rod is not spring loaded the spring is in the hole on the left side of the grill. Push on the other end of the rod and you should see it go father into the hole on the left.
Shuley, unthread the point off then put that end into the rod hole on the left side of the grill. Push it in as it is spring loaded then slide the right hand of the rod down and into the hole on the right side of the grill. The point is only there to make it easier to push the rod through the food.
Foton, it is a heater and works great.
Thanks, Jon, for spreading that all over the net. That is the last time I'm inviting you into my hot tub.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!