The connection end needs to be tilt slightly up. Place the TPS right up to where the screw holes are and tip the right/connection side up about 20 degrees. Mate to TB and turn it down so you can put the 2 screws on. I'm wondering if you did placed it on wrong with your 90 deg. statement.

-'96 SE MTX 3L -'98 SVT 1,173 of 6,535 -'05 Mazda 6s, loaded, g/f's ride -Need a 96-00 manual on CD? PM or email me