SBC Pilot Bearing...backward???

I put a pilot bearing(needle bearing type) in my '65 Chevy 327, it went in "no problem". The parts counter guy says I put it in backwards ( I have the flat side toward the engine and the side where you can see the bearing is facing the clutch/trans shaft) He says if it's in, it doesn't matter which direction but I don't want to replace it again when the trans is in the car. Should I take it out or just leave it?
Thanks

 

How's the clutch working?

 

I did not put the engine back in the car yet.

 

From what you described, it is in correctly.

 

The shielded side is supposed to keep the dirt out of the bearing. Some grease in the cavity will help lube it and it will last a lot longer. I would tear it down and switch it around, seeing as how the engine isn't in the car yet.

 

A Lincoln grease gun's Zerk Female end is just the right size to fit into the pilot bearing. Just stick it in and pump. The bearing comes right out, no harm no foul.