Soft Top Ferrules, when to install?

[Double Venom]

SLHetal,
You might be doing OEM/Factory tops but I have never had two tops with the "Lift-A-Dots" all in the identical posistion from top to top. If only one "Dot" is so much as a 1/4" off then at best you will have a 1/4" buckle in the top or in worst case scenario the convertible "Dot" wont reach the pin...causing another hole to be drilled in a painted body. If I have the top then by all means completely mount it before painting and remove for painting. My post above strictly speaking -until- you have the top in hand do not drill the body for the pins.
Sorry if I was misleading.
DV

[TWOOD]

OK,...I'm getting the picture.
Here's what I guessing I would need to do.
The 6 holes, for the ferrules, were already drilled into the doors and body (from CRII) when I received it.
My top, and ferrules, are 2 years on back order (and no immediate hope of getting it soon, considering the legal situation in which Don Scott is currently struggling).

If I can obtain SS tubing I can fabricate and install the ferrules per DV's instructions. Then I can proceed with getting the car painted.
I would then have to deal with accurate placement and installation of the lift-a-dots as best I can, when I receive the soft top.
What do you think, anybody? DV? Better idea, anyone?
Tom