Case 580C Boom Cylinder Gland Binding

Well I ran into a new one over the weekend... I've been repacking pretty much all the cylinders on my 580C. Pretty typical experience; some come apart easy, others are a real PITA to get the gland nut off. This was one of those that had a really tough gland nut. I eventually got it off after applying heat, peening and using a 5' cheater. I've rebuilt the gland and was able to slip the rod through the wiper / outer seal just fine but the rod is extremely tight through the plastic wear ring. I cleaned the gland nut in my parts washer and even used a wire wheel inside to get all the crud / corrosion knocked down. I used the same kit and same technique when I built the other boom cylinder and had no problems. I used a dead blow hammer to persuade the rod through the wear ring (figuring maybe it was just a bit cockeyed and would free up once more of the rod had bearing on the wear ring). I don't want to hammer it past the seal and damage the seal but instead of getting easier, it's super tight. As in I can't even rotate it on the rod. Decided I had enough for the evening and came in. What gives? Is it possible the wear ring was out of spec and a little too thick? Guess the next step is to hammer the gland nut back off the cylinder and reevaluate but any pointers or advice is welcome. Edit: the part circled below in red is what I'm calling the wear ring. Not sure if that's the right term or not.