SmartBMS - BMS M8 Cable Connection

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I’m trying to connect my BMS communication cable extension to my SmartBMS (non-NG) but it’s a real struggle. I’m using the M8 cable (ASS030560100) but somehow it seems impossible to simply connect the cable smoothly into the SmartBMS port.

I did successfully connect one end, but this already needed a certain amount of (unnatural) force. For the other end I’m scared to apply any more force than I already did on the first port. Is there a special trick to connect the BMS cable, should I “poke” the connectors/slot a bit first (don’t want to damage the connectors or slot) or am I missing anything else ?