Thrust Bearing Installation

My flex plate sounded like it was hitting something on the bell. Process of elimination we grabbed a dial indicator and the clearance was wayyyyyyy off. Dropped the oil pan and the thrust bearing is shot. We were able to spin out the old bearings. This is on a FRPP Stroker SB with only 400 miles on the SB. ARGG!!!!!! Any tips or tricks to spin in the top bearing and thrust bearing??

i ended up drilling a hole in the thrust washer and the block to get oil to the rear

What was the end play when the motor was put together? I'd go with a one piece top this time around. Did the crank get damaged too?