Wrenchbender Ret.
I also have a 4 speed behind a 235 with new pressure plate and 11 inch clutch. The flywheel was set up for the 11 inch clutch with 6 bolt mount pressure plate. Seems that the 11 inch clutch arrangement was supposed to be for a 55-56 3/4 ton or bigger set up, but bolted in fine except for the clutch release. The clutch kit came with a shorter (app 1 1/4 inch) throwout bearing instead of the 1 7/8 that would have been on the original set up. I have tried both length throw out bearings to see if that was the problem. The shorter throwout bearing works best and releases clutch ok before tranny installation. I checked the tranny for internal alignment with all as described above and according to service manual diagrams. Still having trouble getting clutch to fully release with transmission in place. Clutch releases fine before the tranny was installed. New pilot bushing does not seem to be binding either. Tranny slides in just fine until last 1/4-3/8 inch then seems to be binding or tight. Almost seems as if the forward driven gear retainer cover is contacting the clutch. Will measure forward cover when I take apart again tomorrow to see if it may be contacting clutch plate. Actually getting pretty good at removal and replacement of tranny since I have taken apart several times in last day or so. A neighbor loaned me his old mechanical style transmission jack so job has been lots easier with all of its adjustments. Tranny shifts fine and clutch releases fine until tranny is in place. Any ideas on what may be causing the problems and/or solution would be appreciated.
Thanks
Willie

1949 GMC 3/4-ton pickup