[solved] can't set root password in live environment

[Drone4four]

I haven't yet got to the stage 3 installation medium of the install process of Gentoo and I noticed that can't reset my root password. When I type passwd as root user, it prompts me to enter a password and then to retype it. I do exactly that. But when login as a regular user and then attempt re-login as root, it won't take the password that I just created. I ensure that caps lock isn't on. In fact I went so far as to make my root password just, 'aaa' just as an experiment. I attempt to login as root with aaa and it won't let me. I have multiple VTs available with root user so its not difficult to reset the password. I just can't figure out why I can't manually login as root in my live environment.

I'm a returning inexperienced Gentoo user and forum member so I wouldn't be surprised to be hit with a clue bat. Please be gentle.

Thanks for your attention.
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My rig:
IBM Personal System/2 Model 30-286 - - Intel 80286 (16 bit) 10 Mhz - - 1MB DRAM - - Integrated VGA Display adapter
1.44MB capacity Floppy Disk - - PS/2 keyboard (no mouse)

[Drone4four]

Yikes! I just found this FAQ. Sorry guys.

Dear mods: Please lock this thread as it has been resolved. =D
_________________
My rig:
IBM Personal System/2 Model 30-286 - - Intel 80286 (16 bit) 10 Mhz - - 1MB DRAM - - Integrated VGA Display adapter
1.44MB capacity Floppy Disk - - PS/2 keyboard (no mouse)