convertible top push rod replacement

[Mark_T]

I am replacing the passenger side convertible top push rod (plastic head snapped off) and its rubber bushing (old one was long gone).

When I re-install the push rod and rubber bushing, should I liberally grease the pivot point or is it designed to work dry?

Mark

[Mark_T]

When I took the top apart, the rubber bushings that go in the pushrods had rotted away and disappeared long ago, so I'm not sure of the correct orientation.

Is this correct, or should it be inserted from the opposite side? In other words, does the thick part go on the outside like in my photo, or on the inside between the pushrod and the lever?