Everything was going smoothly. Used the recommended bearing press tool to install the bearings. I installed the new drive shaft. Used a hammer and block of wood to ensure the drive shaft bottomed out on the top bearing. Instructions said to "tap" with hammer. It required a few strokes a bit harder than a "tap" to get the drive shaft to bottom out flat against the bearing. I installed new shaft nut, stator back plate, and stator. I checked the drive shaft by turning it with my hand. It turned freely. I installed the rotor and then checked the drive shaft again by turning it by hand. The rotor turns part of a revolution freely than exhibits a firm resistance. It still turns but much harder. Frees up again as I continue turning it by hand, then resistance again. When I remove the rotor, the shaft turns freely. Put the rotor back on, free movement then resistance. Any ideas what could be causing the rotor to bind against the stator? I would really appreciate some help. Thanks so much.

wbr, Thank you very much for your response. Mine is a top loader. The resistance is smooth and quiet. I wonder how I would go about confirming that the resistance is normal. Surprised no one else mentioned it. I was afraid to continue with the installation for fear of wasting the seal, adhesive, and grease if I had to pull it all out again.