If using a bushing, be sure it's not a cheap magnetic one. You want bronze or brass. The last time I installed a brass bushing in my old Chevy, the ID of the bushing decreased just enough by driving it in place that the input shaft would not fit. I had to take emery cloth on a dowel and lightly ream the bushing until I got a perfect fit. Luckily I did this before I had the engine and trans installed in the car. Never had an issue with a Pontiac using the actual steel bearing. But yeah, using a real input shaft helps, and having a helper push the clutch in while stabbing the trans the last little bit usually works.
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Jeff 
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