The more light one can get under there the better.  I almost never use the rod.  If I'm doing anything more involved than checking/filling the oil, the hood goes back to the 'screen (secure with bungee) just to get good light.  And even when I do use the prop, I often "cheat" and put it over in the corner of the hood rather than in it's hole, just to get the extra inch or so of opening.  I know that's a bad idea as an errant wind gust could cause havoc.  I should extend the rod like you did so I can get more opening without "cheating".

Nice nice.

-Dave G.

PS - the critical feature in that design is making sure the top part where it engages the hood can't be pulled free by wind blowing the hood up.  Would be a good idea to verify that before mother nature does it for you with your head in the way!