My kit arrived today.
They sent two coil plungers that are longer than the stock plungers. Same fit, same look, same everything -- just about 0.5" longer.
Installation was a breeze and the kicker doesn't come anywhere near the playfield. I'm very happy.
I wonder if a longer plunger results in a weaker slingshot? Maybe... but I'm not concerned about that part. I'm just happy the problem has been solved and it was such a simple fix.
-Bob