Carolina Diesel
ArboristSite Operative
we're thinking in a very similar manner. i will be home in the next hour or so, i will give tapping the flywheel side a shot and update everyone. I also may do a video.
IMO, the seal should be flush with the bearing race. A little deeper wont hurt as long as its not interfering with the cage.
In your case, you noticed resistance after installing the seal.....correct?
Knowing that the seal is seated farther than need be and it is creating possible interference with the bearing, (If it were me) I would pull the seal and install a new one.
Just for farts and wiggles have you tried tapping the FW side of the crank lightly? I assume you used the socket and hammer method to install the seals? There may be a slight chance you made contact with the outer race, causing some sort of misalignment. All I'm thinking is that an opposite and equal reaction may correct the issue without having to pull the seal.