Frank & Volks:

Yes, those clips are damn difficult to force open so you can
get them onto the front mudflaps. My solution was to use a
LARGE flat-bladed screwdriver.  I placed the screwdriver
inside the clip, rotated the screwdriver inside the clip to
force it open wider, and then with some muscular effort
forced the clip onto the mudflap attached to the car. (Note:
my 91 GL has the fiberglass quarter panels that allowed the
mudflaps to stay wedged in place until I had the clips
attached.) I would imagine you may need an assistant.

Also, recognize that a prior post to the List indicated that
those less stout (limp?) second pair of clips are to be
attached prior to installing the more stout clips with which
you're struggling.  I was able to install the mudflaps
without these limp clips (but only time will tell if that
will work best).  I would imagine the limp clips might
function as the "second pair of hands" you may be looking
for.

Hope this helps,

- - George Chapman 91 GL
    Lake Almanor, CA