Found some 1967 NOS hubcaps for my 1961 LeSabre, but they're too tight?

The first one went on no problem. The other three are extremely tight. Two went on 2/3 of the way. Beating on them pretty hard. Even after having a few brews. The rim is grooved where the retention spring travels when pushed into place. I'm thinking the new springs are extremely tight. Either I need to pry the spring back, but looks extremely strong or blend in the grooves on the rim deburring slightly.

 

Photo? I want to see the NOS hubcaps, before you destroy them ;~)

 

I second the above! Let's see those NOS wheel covers. The wheel covers on my 67 Electra are nice and fit tight as well, but they spring into position with a firm press from the palm of my hand. Once they're on, you still need a pry bar to get them off. Don't destroy the wheel covers, move them on to a 67 or 68 guy and find the correct covers for your 61!

 

Unless you REALLY love those 67 covers, sell them off for some $$ and get set nice Rally wheels. I reckon they look nice on a 61

 

Did you try "the first one" also on the other rims?
And the other hubcaps on "the first rim"?