No, it's not normal!
I just took a look at the WSM and it mentions keeping track of the shaft bushings, which shafts they went on, and their original locations and orientations when disassembling/reassembling. Did you do that?
I looked in the book specifically trying to find an end play measurement, but it's not given (that I could find). That being said, if it doesn't easily turn with the end plate on, then SOMETHING IS WRONG.
DON'T TURN IT WITH A WRENCH!
Take it back apart, and check everything. I'm guessing you may have reassembled with the bushings not back in their original spots. You should be able to reassemble without the o-rings or seals, tighten everything up, and it should turn easily. If not, you need to figure out what is going on. The reason it should turn easily is the hard parts are already worn. I'm guessing, due to wear, there should be .006 - .010" or so of end play at this point, so it shouldn't be very hard to turn. When the shaft seals are installed, they will fight you a bit, but if it's test assembled without the seals, it should turn easily by fingers even with the end plate torqued.
Unfortunately, if by turning with a wrench if you've gouged anything then you are likely going to have problems. Let's hope not! Also, beware of metal shavings...
Finally, what did the "rebuild" consist of? Was it just changing gaskets, shaft seals, and o-rings or did you also replace hard parts?
Good luck!
Steve