How to put new scales on a SAK?

[not-too-sharp]

I bought 91 mm replacement scales for my Vic explorer and can't get them on.
I've tried using my hands, pliers (padded with a cloth), and a rubber mallet.
Have any of you encountered this problem with brand new scales?
Is there a technique that I am unaware of?
The holes and rivets line up properly and I can get the scales on to an extent, but I can't get them all of the way on. :grumpy:
My explorer was my EDC before it's scales loosened and I feel naked without it.
Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks -Andrew

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

They just squeeze on. Try a vice. You can even add a little oil to the inside of the plastic scales if you'd like. Just a drop though, to get things going. The plastic conforms around the rivets on the handles. Just put two flat blocks of wood in a vice and do one end at a time.

 

[Harayasu]

Usually the scales can be put on easily and often you'll hear a snap when the rivets get in the holes. But it occurred to me a few times too that the rivets can't get deep enough in the holes. I made the holes a little bit wider, but that's risky, since the hole may get too wide. That occurred to me a few times too and I solved that by putting a drop of super glue in the hole that was too wide and then firmly put the scale on the SAK.

 

[dfwcowboy]

Make sure all the old plastic debris from the old scales is removed from the rivet area underneath the lip of that ring. It could be what is holding it back some. I use a hammer and wrap the scales/knife in a rag. A vice would be good too.