flexplate bolts

Do you have a metal plate between the engine block and trans case ?
That adds a small amount of space. When it all fits together correctly the torque converter once fully seated in the trans should stand away from the flev plate enough to turn the converter freely. The connecting bolts should pull the torque converter a little but not bend the bolt ears of the flex plate.
If the ears go toward the converter when tightening the bolts the coverter is hitting in the center and defeating the purpose of the flex plate. Hope this makes sense.