From looking at the photos, here’s a couple of other issues. The pull rod should be very straight. Otherwise the first part of the stroke is wasted, pulling it straight. Also, the actuating arm (on the brake drum) should not be pointing straight down, at rest (no brake application). It should rest pointing back, at about 7 o’clock, not 6.
Where it is now, the connection point rotates up and away from the rod, when the brakes are on. Half the applied force is wasted, trying to pull it into alignment. Do get that bolt installed. It will work fine in. the shop, but not the first time you really need it......