4wd actuator motor

I am trying to replace the 4wd actuator motor on my 2003 suburban. I have very little mechanic experience but am not afraid to try! I got the old one off (with a bit of finesse). I can not get the new one into place. There is a drive shape/gear box thing which is in the way of getting the new actuator seated properly. I can not manuver the female part of the acutator over the male gear which protrudes from the car. Any help would be greatly apprecaited.

T