Edmonton, AB
First check your slope and level.
That being said, I had this exact issue when I first got my FT. Turned out that the PO had 'adjusted' (bent) the metal ball guide on the right near the top so that the ball would always go to the LIE gates. Obviously making it impossible to do a long cast. That and installed a weaker shooter coil.
Took me a long time to get it bent somewhat back into the correct shape (still not perfect).
I also noticed that there should be a nut that holds the end of the guide it down (mine was missing) - perhaps it is missing on yours causing the guide to move a bit?
Tacoma, WA
