hard to get into 1st gear

Is it the original bell for that block. I have seen several clutch & shifting problems here at the shop do the bell not being indexed with the crank. Also causes premature main and thrust bearing wear.

Many over look this procedure and get lucky. They sell offset block pins that can be rotated, Also good aftermarket bells have weld in pin holes to be installed after indexing is done. Just something you might want to look into. Steve