It's hard for us to envision exactly where the problem is. It would help if you could get your spouse or partner to video you removing and then replacing the cover. Post the video on YouTube, and we'll take a look.

However, if I'm understanding you correctly, the cover is about 4" wider than the dimension from coping edge to coping edge. *IF* the problem is that the cover doesn't drop in and slide smoothly, the solution might be as simple as trimming 2.5" from each side, so the cover CAN drop in easily.

. . . membership upgraded.