Classic/Antique Car Repair: tranny, clutch alignment tool, clutch tool

Question
i have a 69 chevy ss 396
i have a lot of trouble getting my 4 speed tranny back into the bellhousing as it will not line up and go int the hole, what is it that i'am doing wrong as we put in a new clutch/pressure plate/and throwoutbering, what is it we are doing wrong please help me

Answer
ok I think I can help you=
first did you use a alignment tool / clutch tool or a old shaft ? if no this (IS) your problum.
second you did by getting a new throwout breing but how aboyt that old pilot bearing, yes it is a small brass most of the time and it is in the crankshaft tail and if it has a bur in it you will not get the tranny in.
so now you must get and use a clutch alignment tool at auto stores thay are not that much money. you will have to loosen the pressure plate / clutch bolts again. now put the tool in and do what the inst. say and re tighten all bolts (tourque) them in seaquence, again check that PILOT bearing also put grease on it and the tip of the shaft of the tranny. also on the throwout bearing. dont get any on the clutch at all. now when you take out the tool be carefull and now when you put the tranny in if you cant do it alone have a buddy on the other side and it MUST go in straight or you will end up pushing the clutch out of place and you will have to re align it. so get it straight in and if it is in but will not go all the way that is ok as take the bolts that hold in the tranny or longer ones and tighten them up top and bottom as it will draw the tranny right in place for you ok take time as it will work.
good luck
bigw