already had to take everything back off since i didnt get it on the 1st time. how do i know for sure i have it lined up right and all before i put everything back together? anyone have any pix so can see for myself? any help would be greatly appriciated.

 

Look carefully at the splined drive and match up the notch with the other side.

 

once you have it lined up like shoebox said it should slide on relatively easily. DO NOT bolt it on to snug it up. it should go on and be flush without the bolts.