If I am understanding correctly the issue you are having is getting it stored in place as in making the locking lever go over the ring correct? I have the Minnkota also and one thing I had seen on here was to loosen the set screw and back that locking ring up a few turns. It gave more room between the ring and the motor housing and I do not have to pull/tug as hard to lock it in place. It also help with my finder wires not getting pinched as easy. Hope this helps