Side trim strips: they were all stuffed brimful of stiff window putty. Keeps things cleaner after weather, and protects the clips from their own rust. Position each clip, spot-putty in place, then position the next one. One at a time. Then fill in the gaps before popping them in. I have no idea how they got stuffed exactly right at the factory, but heating them before popping-in might work to get excess putty to squeeze out, and in precise final positioning.. [dead-blow hammer might help with that].

Just to add a note. The upper door trim has small clips that need installed onto the car prior to snapping trim in place. these clips are very small, metal clips that need pop rivets to anchor. I have also discovered plastic clips that replace the metal ones. wish I found them prior to my upper trim install. (less rust is better). They are a little pricey but probably worth it in the long run. email me if you wish more resource info.

I've never done the drip rail strips but they do clip on. Very easy to damage them so hopefully there will be someone along to give a few tips. The side trim clips have to be slid into the back of the trim and positioned accordingly. There is a cut away that allows them to be inserted. VERY easy to damage your paint, especially around the holes in the body. As you line up the clips, put a lump of Dum-Dum or similar non set caulk, around the clip before you press it home. This keeps the water from seeping in. Not critical on the front wings but essential on the rear ones. You can add some more sealant around the clips in the trunk. The door ones obviously need the cards off but do them if you can.

The proper side trim clips can be hard to find. When removed they are usually rusty, so not really worth using again. If you know of a 4 door Amazon lying around, pull off the trim that runs down the inner side of the B posts. These trims are held in place by the same clips. Used here they stay rust free.