thanks guys. didn't have the right sized pin apparently, and rather than rendering myself screwed i reused the one that was in there. the clutch was brand new but i changed it anyway having bought it. hopefully the bearing is in such good shape too. my grease might have been wrong as well as the pin, slick 50 marine grease. feels thinner than standard grease. i have two new pilot bearings so i'll take em with me to look for a pin. i have a new tranny now but i'm sure the t-case and engine are close behind so i'll have more chances to get at it. nice to be able to type without gloves on!!