I kind of did the same thing...took a small vice grip and squeezed the tool, lubed it up, and it was a peice of cake. I was way over cautious but no such thing.

the problem I have now I wish i was just as cautious!

I verified tonight the old covers and new ones are different...just hoping to locate a black set of rocker covers now that are correct.

 

here is the bike in test ride condition. Very different bike with the new cam, pistons, rebuilt valve springs, etc - just a few adjustments and it is good to go. I'll give her a good bath and put the heat sheilds on this weekend.