well, took it into licktons, and although they didn't have a 26.6 in stock, they used a 26.6 old post to try. Worked fine, no frame issues. Why would my old one say 26.8, oh well.

The reason I get the elbow pain is beacause my arms are overextended when reaching the drops. True, getting a little knee pain alsò but should have the new post by mid week so no worries.