4 question about the convertible top front bow

[kmoses]

I have the vinyl top off the frame and the front bow unbolted from the rest of the frame. The bow front lip (that overhangs the windshield frame) touches at each end of the frame. At the center of the windshield frame there is a .080" gap between it and the bow that gets smaller as you go outward.

Questions;
#1 - Should the bow front lip touch evenly across the face of the windshield frame?

#2 - Does the gasket that seals the gap between the top and the windshield frame seal at the face of the frame, at the top of the frame or both?

#3 - Is there supposed to be foam between the top material and the curved surface of the bow and if so, how thick should it be?

#4 - How do I identify a bent bow ( I have read that sitting on the top when it is collapsed/folded can bend it).

[bradartigue]

#1 - Should the bow front lip touch evenly across the face of the windshield frame? With the seal installed and the clips engaged it should firmly compress the seal.

#2 - Does the gasket that seals the gap between the top and the windshield frame seal at the face of the frame, at the top of the frame or both? The frame has this kind of inset "lip" or channel that it engages. I'm not sure I understand what you're asking.

#3 - Is there supposed to be foam between the top material and the curved surface of the bow and if so, how thick should it be? Yes, and it is maybe a couple of mm thick.

#4 - How do I identify a bent bow ( I have read that sitting on the top when it is collapsed/folded can bend it). It will not evenly compress a seal. Frankly if bent it looks bent.

[kmoses]

The reason I asked about where it seals is that my car did not have a front rubber seal when I purchased it, just the bow, top and plastic trim. I have a seal on order but using the search function and looking at images I have not been able to get a clear understanding of how it attaches to the bow or how exactly it should be positioned.