engine swap; clutch linkage problem

[68lwb]

I have a '68 4x4 that came with a 292 with 465 transmission and 221 transfer case. I am putting in a 307 with same transmission and transfer case combo.
I used the old bell housing and flywheel, but when I took it to the muffler shop they told me the clutch linkage is to tight to the exhaust manifold and can't be bent. I found a 68 4x4 with V8 and 4 speed transmission, found the linkage to be different and changed it. I gained a little room, but doesn't look like that much. Anybody had this problem before, and if so how the heck did you fix it. I have looked at it from every angle I can and the only thing I see is possibly changing the manifold to one that dumps straight down instead of angling back. The only manifold I found that does this is one that does not have the front holes to mount the alternater on.
Help Please!!!
Thanks,
Jeff