Try our new info resource - "Aladdin's Cave" (Main menu)Just added a separate link to Ash's Dropbox thread (shortcut)
Mic the original spindle - o check if its not rusted, corroded and hence oversize - might have been damaged due to missing spacer. Conversely, check the bushes in the replacement swingarm in case they've been damaged - sounds obvious but got to be one or the other.
Could your pivot bolt have had a fresh coat of bright zinc plating and 'grown' enough to prevent it getting inside the collar?Every time I have spindles or the like zinc plated it's usually necessary to remove it from close fit areas.Just a thought............Mick.