I laid mine back as far as it would go, using the generous holes in the windshield frame:
The windshield rubber gasket sets down fine. I did have to make a number of modifications to the soft top
bows to get it to fit. I started a custom set of side curtains, but have never finished them.
I have only used my top a couple times in thirteen years (it's very difficult to climb in and out of the car
with the cage braces and the top up).
Jeff