PV slop?

[rxmx]

First time GG top-end for me. Thanks to those who put up info on how to get the flapper valve out of the head, had me stumped for a bit. Anyway, on re-assembly I had excessive play/slop in the right side pv exhaust valve, in-out, as the "bearing spacer" is not wide enough. Is this play needed? It's almost enough to allow the actuator bracket to clear the stop bolt. I already made up a shim, just looking for guidance before I button it back up.
Also, had a hard time getting the PV to rotate smoothly, new bearings and all. Turned out to be "casting flash" and crud inside the flapper valve slot for the aft "axis rod". Took me awhile to find the problem, hope this helps someone if they have a similar issue.