Mark,
I cleaned my slingers (they were both full to the brim with clay-like gooey stuff) over the weekend and suspect that the previous owner forgot some bits and pieces when he last overhauled. On my R69S, 1968, should there not be a shim between the crankshaft ball bearing and gear. I took a chance at removing the bearing and the gear together (thankfully there was no circlip holding the gear!) as the 2 screwdriver method on the bearing was futile. The missing or not missing bushing made it impossible to pry the bearing out first as it was too deep in the gear recess.
On a second note, is it normal to have a little side play on the oil pump drive gear? I can sense freeplay as I press on the gear from side to side. Either the pump gearshaft cone or gear center hole is worn or both. If it is not ok, then would changing to a new gear set fix the problem...if it is a problem. Is it also normal that there is a lock washer in lieu of a locking tab securing the SW14 nut on the R69S?