I have the later clutch carrier, I don't know if this will work on the earlier bikes.
I install the clutch plate and the rear plate, I can't remember if it's the pressure ring or plate .
Before I tighten the bolts. I measure the distance from the clutch plate to the edge of the rear plate, get as close as possible to even all the way around .
Put the transmission on and install all the fasteners but don't tighten them up all the way leave it a few threads before it tightens up, insert the clutch rod through the transmission until it stops .
I rotate the output of the transmission and either push on the clutch rod, or use a rubber mallet to hit the rod, you don't need a lot of force .
Hasn't failed me yet .