The present invention is related to a method for centering a pouring tube in a pouring tube assembly using a multi-piece centering sleeve by inserting a pouring tube into a holding casting aperture in a holding casting; pouring grout to fill a portion of a gap between the pouring tube and the holding casting; slipping the centering sleeve over the outside of the pouring tube until it is press fit in a portion of the gap between the pouring tube and the holding casting; adjusting the centering sleeve to center-position the pouring tube; grouting the remainder of the gap to fill all voids in the gap; installing a parting ring on top of the holding casting; and installing a holding ring around the holding casting and parting ring.