Rule #1 of console installation with a stick shift car: If you cant put the shifter in all 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear without it smashing into the shifter cup, you don't have the console in the right place. Of course there are many other meddlesome details like incorrect shifter arm, aftermarket shifter, shifter adapter not installed, non stock transmission, but since this seems like stock installation, this should not be a factor.
I read that you found a welded bracket. That's a red flag of previous owner handiwork. The factory did NOT weld the front bracket in place, it was attached by 2 hex head screws. In addition the floor has two holes to attach it for these screws (unless the floor hump has been replaced). As the bracket is not symmetrical, it can be installed incorrectly causing the console to be in the wrong position.
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