swivel problems !

Hi chaps just replacing the swivels & bearings etc and seem to be having some problems - I have bought new swivels & pin bearings - the problem is huge amounts of play in the bottom pin bearing but none whatsoever on the top - it has all been put back together correctly so im a little confused as the bearing races fit nice in the swivels - ive even checked the dimensions of the new swivels as they are britpart jobs - Will removing shims from the top pin help lose play on the bottom pin ????????
Please help im pulling me hair out here.
Just to add - there was no play there with the original swivels & bearings - only changing as the swivels are rusty & keep eatin the seals & the dreaded mot is soon - its almost as if the lower bearing is too small !
Thanks in advance

of course it would its only loose at bottom due to gravity ,bottom pin never needs removing from swivel housing when doing bearings double bearing housings dont want to be tight like bearing at bottom and bush at top like earlier defenders, 2lb is enough

sorry james - after thinking about it removing shims makes perfect sense - thanks for replying mate & kicking me brain in to gear