pinion shaft preload

I ve finally got my new parts in today and wanted to install the pinion shaft in my 350B case. The transaxle is out of the tractor and on my hydraulic press. So I did add more shims ,but I still get the bearings tight. I probably got it to 100ftlbs and it has started to have a resistance. if I try and turn the shaft with my fingers I can get it to turn but is pretty tight. I put a torque wrench on it and it didnt budge the needle. I was under the impression that the shaft should turn real smooth without any tightness. The manual says must have zero endplay and preload when you torque to 200ftlbs. Any advice here? is that tightness normal and should I keep going? thanks

pinion shaft preload