I tried several techniques to install them, including the soapy water and none made it easy. I ended up slowly working them on taking close to 15 minutes each of strenous stroking (snicker all you want, the method worked). After 20 minutes of trying different things and 5 minutes into the only technique that made any progress past 1/4' (5mm or so for those north of me)/ I almost gave up. But I kept at it and I am glad I did. Love them.