My American Powertrain hydraulic release bearing is designed to move 1/2 inch. Are you able to verify that yours is moving a full 3/4 inch when depressed?
I understand your frustration, as I've had my transmission in and out about 5 times between swapping in, out and in a five speed and then discovering I also had clutch and release linkage issues. It's currently coming back out to have the pressure plate rebuilt at McLeod again. (oil contamination the last 2 times.)
It sounds like you have incorrect parts in the pressure plate/ clutch disc components. I don't think its a good idea to run the car with the washers, because the thickness required is not a known dimension. If too thick, they could cause slippage under load.