Ron,
Did you by chance put grease in the pilot bearing cavity? This could be acting as a hydraulic stop if your bearing is tight. Just a thought . . .
I wouldn't try to support the motor only on the front motor mount - it'll break.
Get a couple of big hammers and crow bars, smash your thumb with a hammer and then go at it again, it will go in and this is good training for becoming a curmudgeon.
