Is there a trick to popping these things in.I've been trying four 3hours and I'm gonna scream

Never had a problem opening / closing them, especially when they´ve been greased a little.

But be aware the there are different sizes per side

you're not trying to put them on, with the rod already in them, are you? push in the clips, then stick the rods inside them.

I can get the bushings in but they are both on the same side . My arms to cut up and bruised to work on it anymore

I gave up and had one of my friends with small arms do it. Had it done in 5 minutes lol