CV Shaft Reinstall

[tankowner]

Hi folks, back again with another question.

Following the tierod, balljoint and brakes replacement on driver's side a few days ago, I am now on to the same work on the passenger side. In addition, I am also replacing the CV shaft on passenger side. Things have gone really good on the disassembly. I have everything apart and the knuckle entirely removed so I can get the new CV shaft lined up as straight as possible for the reinstall.

Now for the problem, because there has to be a problem, right?

I can't seem to get the new shaft to seat. The old one was a bit of bear to get out, but it eventually came free. I have the new one in and I can feel that the splines are aligned (plus if I try to rotate it a little the rest of the driveline moves with it). But from there I can't get it go in any further. I wore myself out trying to push it in using just my hands and eventually worked my way up putting the old nut on the end of the new shaft, compressing the shaft and then smacking it on the end (old nut) with a 2 lb hammer. I've given it several good whacks and can't seem to get it to budge.

Any thoughts? Do I just need to keep at it and hit it harder until it finally gets past the circlip? I hate beating on these things too much, but not sure what else to do.

Appreciate any input. Thanks.