Hi , rebuilding a 1968 's' there was float on the intermediate shelf when crank case was is two parts but now the two halfs are together, float is gone and shaft seems to be too far to. The front of the engine, looks like it will require two gaskets and 10 shims to pack out.

Concern now is this

1. that the shaft is too hard against the crank case
2. Cam gears will not aline / timing gears chain will wear too fast.

What have others experienced with regard to number of shims ? What is typical? Once the crankcase is closed up should the intermediate shalf still move?

Many thanks Rich