Hi HansW - We're sorry to hear you've had difficulty using your fuel can. After VENTING the fuel can, there are two steps to using this spout. Step 1. UNLOCK: Using your palm, press the small dark green lock tab up to unlock. Step 2: POUR: Place your fingers over the black grip and keeping the lock tab depressed and using your palm, squeeze to slide the large green pad forward to release the fuel. This video may also help: https://www.scepter.com/safety/instructional-videos/ . There is some stiffness expected when sliding the large green pad forward as that is part of the child resistant feature, however it should not require excessive force. You may find that placing the fuel can flat on the ground and actuating the spout once or twice prior to use may allow the green pad to slide easier during operation. For your convenience there is a hook on the underside of the SMARTCONTROL spout that can rest on the lip of the receiving tank, using the hook when pouring helps alleviate much of the weight. Tilt the can up from the bottom using one hand, following the instructions for the spout operation with the other hand. If you have any further questions or are still having difficulty, please reach out to our Customer Care Team at 1-855-857-3252 for assistance. Thank you, we are here to help!