The spring doesn't look like it would compress enough to get the splines of the wheel on, are you sure it didn't come out of the center of the adapter under the nut?
PANTERA INTERNATIONAL
A DE TOMASO CAR CLUB
Presents the De Tomaso Forums
The On-Line Meeting Place for De Tomaso Owners and Enthusiasts From Around the World
Clicking on the banner will take you to the sponsor's website.