I am installing a new clutch in a 1999 Miata. When putting the tranny back in, I can get it in very easily, but it won't go all the way, it only lacks about half an inch. I can get bolts started but I"M afraid to use the bolts to draw it in further. Am I just pushing against the 'fingers' on the clutch plate? I have put on a new fly wheel, disc, pressure plate and release bearing. Thanks for your help.
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If it's only the last half inch I doubt it's the clutch disc splines - the splines would have much more engagement depth than 1/2". However, the disc needs to be clamped accurately to about 50 thousandths centricity to make certain the bevel on the input shaft tip can enter the pilot bearing.
Like @Paulster2 mentioned, pilot bearing is far more likely, and the easy (fingers crossed) @Solar Mike solution hopefully is to have a helper spin the driveshaft while in a low gear, while you try and get the tranny to seat flush (wiggle-shake-wiggle and then some). This might allow the input shaft tip to rotate into the pilot bearing or bushing.
As an aside, I always buy the complete clutch kit from a vendor like Sachs or Luk that includes the pressure plate, friction, possibly throwout and/or pilot bearing, but always the plastic splined alignment dowel. And it's your to keep! Not to brag, but after 4 decades I have accumulated probably 40 or more of these different distinct tools. I have a pegboard display that I hang them on in my shop, that really amounts to nothing more than a gearhead mechanic's trophy wall.
Another possibility is that you have created a burr on alignment dowel(s) or mashed the lip of the aluminum dowel receiver hole on the bell housing, which is quite easy to do while wrestling the tranny in place. How do I know?? If you're lucky you can see/reach this and dress it lightly with a file. Unlucky and you may have to pull the transmission, check, fix, and start over.
Best of luck.
SteveRacer
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