Help - pilot bearing problem

[ScottH]

A friend of mine is having a problem with a new pilot bearing he just installed in a Pontiac 428. The problem he is having is now that the bronze pilot bearing is in (tight fit), the trans (Muncie 4 speed) input shaft point will not fit in the center hole. He checked it before installing it and it was fine, but now that the pilot bearing is in, it appears that the hole is too small.

Can anyone offer ideas or suggestions as to what he should do next (another pilot bearing, wrong size, etc.)? The engine was completely rebuilt and he wants to install it, but of course needs to get this right before he drops it in the car.

Any help, suggestions, info, etc. is really appreciated.

Thanks.