every time i log on and try to search the search screen is not there and i cannot see what I searched for. My connection is fine, so how do I get the split screen with search on top and your list on the bottom everytime?

You'll see very small arrows side by side on the screen, click one of those & it will show either one of the search or downld window panes or it'll show both. The arrows will point up & down.

the vertical arrows have never worked on my limewire only the horizontal ones, so what do I do now?

click them either the vertical or horizontal one. There will be ones (I think) for both horiz & vertical sections. So ... if you're only seeing one window the arrows will either be at the very top or bottom.

Another alternative is to delete your LW preferences folder whilst LW is closed: Try deleting your LW Preferences folder whilst LW is closed; instructions here: Fixes for Limewire After opening things will or should be back to normal.