To use magnets:

Select the neck part. Select Object/Create magnet. It will be centered on the neck part.
Select the Mag base. Resize it some 150%. Move it to as you see in the picture.
Select the mag zone. Move it to be centered with the base. Set the Y scale smaller to approx. as it is in the image.
Select the mag. Use the dials to move/rotate it. You can also now select the mag zone again. Use the dials and see how the area affected changes.
Try your way I'm sure you can get the mane you want. :o)