The arp shaft comes with the clip installed on the wrong end. The clip goes on the oil pump end. The pointed end of the shaft is the distributor end.
It sounds like you just need to adjust the position of the clip. Also, if the distributor is installed, the shaft may be rotated in relation to the distributor, preventing it from sliding into the distributor. In that case, turn the pump rotor slightly and try again.
Lawrenceville, GA