not a stop on the motor, the gear that is on the regulator.

I have the regulator on the floor, at the moment, my digital camera is not available, but basically, I can't place the motor back on the regulator as the gear has this "long" tooth at the end that will not mesh up with the gear on the motor. The gears on the regulator, and the gear on the motor do not seem to be able to line up at all until the regulator is slightly compressed (I am guessing about an inch or two).

Maybe I am doing something wrong though? Lol would not be the first time.