Torsion bar and boot question

Hey All,
I've got a set of 1 in. torsion bars. They are aftermarket and marked the same on both sides (A35 USA). I'm assuming there isn't any left or right side?

Also I got a set of the poly torsion bar boots from Classic Ind. How in the world do you get these things over the end of the rod? Will hot water soften them up? Pry them on? I hate to mess up my pretty new paint but goodness they are tight!!!