Fwiw... you don't have to buy Spike's... but i think theirs IS designed just for them. I have since gotten TC products (gaskets clamps reducers etc.) From the amazon, and i think other sites might be even cheaper.Thank you for both of your replies. Despite spending literally a grand on the setup, I missed the racking arm. I expect that will solve my problems along with the tips you provided. Back to the Spike site I go.
But the Spike racking arm IS nice. I got it from them. (I too didnt order it with my unit at first. O well).