Jeff,
No, I don't really have any other ideas. There are plenty of people out there with 3pt finish mowers so maybe one of them can help.
Just curious - after you attached at the lower lift points, then at the top link, and you shortened the link, what position was the clevis on the mower top link attach point? It should be nearly horizontal I think. That's what I found anyway, because if it isn't the 3pt will just lift the front of the mower and leave the rear caster wheels on the ground.
Wish I could help you out, but without being there to look at it that's about the best I can do.
- Rob