Every time I work on one of my E1 handsets, I am frustrated that I can't get the spit cup to properly align and then I forget to post the question. So, what is the trick? (I have a feeling this is going to be embarrassingly obvious! :P Oh well. I lost my foolish pride and gained humility when I had triplets.)
Tina
Hold the snuff catcher (mouthpiece) at the position desired (or almost), then tighten down the lock ring.
This is why the transmitter assembly has the ring between the handle and the spit cup.
First tighten the spit cup onto the transmitter assembly, then screw it into the handle as far as possible, and return it to the next position so that the spit cup is aligned properly. To lock this position in place, tighten the ring against the handle. Done.