The funny shaped washer is a soft one. Use a gel lube just a bit spread it thin as it will collect dirt.
Reinstallation onto the car is best with three people. Avoid scratches use ****lots of pads.
Oh! and be sure that the levers on the drivers side that release the locking pin move enough to do so. If the soft top releases then you should be ok. And don't for get the front latches they need to be clean a free moving.
If you remove the heavy chrome seat belt stops behind the seats you can get to the lower part of the locking mechanism,. Clean that up well, it gets a lot of dirt when driving with the top down.
Good luck and don't for get to search the forum and ask questions it will save you grief and $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Jack M.