[KevinH1990]

I can't get to my Boxster right now. We are having a thunder storm and it is sitting under its cover. For some reason, the spin lock installation was a fairly nerve-wracking job for me. I kept thinking I was going to drop the allen bolt or wrench into the top mechanism.

If I recall correctly, the spin locks do fit flush. Here's a link to a picture:
http://986forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4704&highlight=spin+lock

If I had the problem you describe, I think the first thing I would double check is whether I have them on the correct side of the car. One is for the the driver's side and the other is for the passenger.

In the articles I found on the forum during my research on this subject, I noted that one person had a problem similar to yours. He sprayed some WD-40 on the allen bolt and was able to get it in. I did not have to resort to this tactic, so you will be trying it at your own risk. Here's a link to that post: http://986forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1607&highlight=spin+lock

Good luck.