Freelander 1 Clutch release shaft (1.8 petrol PG1 'box)

Need a sense check as I think I'm going mad.

Anyone else fitted a modified PG1 (for 1.8 petrol) clutch release arm from MG Mania?

They're the ones with a grease nipple to ensure the shaft remains properly lubricated.

On trial fit I discovered that the lubrication channels extend beyond the "bearing" surface and in use any grease would leak out past the oil seal and onto the bell housing, not only that, the lateral channel connecting the three rings has sharp edges which would wear on that seal (not that the seal is any use in the circumstances!)

I took measurements and informed MG Mania about my issue and they concluded I had a faulty item and sent out a second "correct" one.

It's exactly the same.

Having problems uploading photos on this post from mobile right now (probably bandwidth issue) I'll try to add in comments so it's obvious what I mean.

Have I been unlucky and got two faulty ones or are they just like this??

Any of you had the same problem this before?

Really need the car back on the road for next week so was hoping to get it sorted today.

TIA

Ah, so a photo was included!! The tie wrap shown on the old shaft was slid down to sit on top of the oil seal. This shows the relative position of the shaft when fitted in the bell housing.

Photos being an issue, whole album is here;

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZxbxBKj3GXC5ECFY7

Are there different versions of release bearing and mech where not so much movement would be required from the bearing length??

Only one LR part number officially listed for PG1 gearbox (can't remember what that number is) allegedly applies to all Mk1 versions (1998-2006)

As I'm running out of time to get it sorted I've already decided to fill the upper channel section with a hard 2-pack adhesive (JB Weld - that stuff has never let me down!). I really need to get it assembled today.

BTW MG Mania conceded a dimensional fault on the original they sent which is why I have a second one! Their customer service is fine from that point of view, and given they've sold loads of these I'm prepared to accept I'm the outlier of weirdness! Intrigued to know how others have fared.

Those "special" shafts are completely unnecessary. All that's needed is a good smear of moly grease on assembly and then a drop of oil at each service.

It's in now and was cheaper than OEM. Not sure how you could lube one once it's installed. It's a gearbox off job to get at it.