What did I do wrong?

Kinda calls into question weather your checking bearing and the new bearing were of the same dimensions?

My thoughts too. I'd double check the bearings to see if the new bearings and races are correct. If you have a depth mic or pinion set up gauge you can see if both the checking bearings and new bearings provide the same pinion depth. If not something if wrong. Most likely a problem with the rear bearing or race would be my guess