Ubuntu-Chicago Problem with vnc over ssh

[Joseph]

So I had the brilliant idea to pick up an old p3 667MHz hp computer and
put Xubuntu on it and try to get vnc to work on it so I could share the
load on my computer.  
I used this tutorial
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/VNCOverSSH?highlight=%28vnc%29
and I got all the programs on both computers and it did not work.  Since
it was an old Pentium 3, I had to install xubuntu from the alternative
cd and I downloaded the gnome desktop so I could enable remote desktop
control.  
I type ssh (IP ADDRESS) and it pulls up a message that asks for the
password and it keeps saying access denied.  I know my passwords and
I've tried every single one out so I don't know what to do.  

I was thinking of just using x11 forwarding from this tutorial
http://www.arsgeek.com/?p=595?namhuy.org but I didn't which would be
better.  Also both computers are in my dorm room but I didn't want to
use a kdm switch if I didn't have to.  I live on campus so its a subnet.
Any Ideas? I might just buy a router, but I wanted some suggestions on
how to best set up my computers since I have only one monitor.  Thanks!

Joe Wyckoff