Yup, the rubber or felt that goes into the track is important...the glass HAS to follow its path.dont be afraid to take it all apart an redo everything.thats how you get it perfect...every time you R&R it you get a better understanding how its working and supposed to work...Hard tops are real tough,be thankful...You've cleaned and greased all the moving parts ,right? Regulators and pivit points etc...I'd still like to see a pic of this rod though ,that 40's a favorite