SEA DOG,
Do what Chris55.1 suggests - run a short trial piece all the way around the channel. Gently pread open the channel if necessary.
Also, use lubricant in the channel - a water-soluble lubricant (like KY-Jelly) is better for the seal than is a petroleum-based lubricant (like Vaseline).
It is not a bad job if the channel is clean and lubricated and the crimps in the channel are removed. When originally installed, the channels were crimped every 6-8 inches (I did not crimp my channels again after installing the replacement windlace-seal).
Good luck,
Tim
