00 Maxima Left axle shaft

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2000 Maxima SE automatic

i removed the lift(driver side) axle shaft by following the directions in th Haynes Manual. the problem im having is getting the new EMPI Axle Assembly(EMPI is the brand) to snap back in the transmission. it seems as though the snap ring isn't snaping into place. I can only push it in so far, then it stops.

do i need to hit the end of the axle with a hammer and a piece of wood to get the ring to seat?

thanks!