valve cover bolt seals-how to remove

Hey guys I have my valve cover off and have my new bolt seals here. How the heck do I get the old seals off the bolts? They don't want to push past the flanges on the bolts. Do I have to cut them off? I'm gonna go clean my valve cover off and hope someone comes by to give me some help, so I can put her back together.
Thanks
Nighttraingirl

 

I just went through this on my 82 XJ650 and had the exact same question.

The seals can be cut off easily using a sharp utility knife. Just be careful not to cut any fingers in the process.

To install the new seals on the bolts I used some silicone grease on the bolt and then used a socket in conjunction with a vise to push the new ones onto the bolt. Required minimal force, but make sure the inside diameter of the socket is large enough - I ruined several new seals until I figured this out.

 

Thanks, brtsvg. I already got two of them replaced with your advice. I didn't have to use a vise, so far was able to wiggle the new seals on with a little grease.
Nighttraingirl