IT'S TRUE---as many have said here---ROB IS GREAT.
He just returned my call after reading the post---the email to him---and the message left for him. A new seal is on the way and "new" instructions too.

I said above that I watched a video on the install and the guy used a small amount of oil on just his finger to swipe the lip of the block---I followed and did this too.

Rob says---per the manufacturer---DRY and then let sit for 4 hours---I did NEITHER.
I am pretty sure the "wet" part was the problem since it went in so easily.
The 4 hour part never had a chance---IMO.

The part should be here Wednesday so I will know more soon.
Thanks to all here and Rob.