Normal as far as I know, Mine is like that also. I haven't found any tricks except sitting in the Jeep and bracing against the seats while pushing forward and down with the clamps ready to slide in the hole.
Some tops are like that, some arent. nothin you can do![]()
Try this though: With the rear quarter sail panel UNHOOKED, put tbe clip in the windshield. Now hook in the quarters and the rest of the top, then clamp down the windshield hooks. makes it a little easier