ESI Super Cap Seal 7m (3.81cm Width x 1.25cm Height x 7m Length) EPDM Rubber for Hardtops and Camper Shells

Should this be installed to truck rails or to the cap? I have a 2005 F150 with a 1/4 inch front rail gap, does this work on the front rail?

Better than foam tape, or do you use it with foam tape?

I have a Load It boat loader rack that is designed for a shell to fit on the bed rails. Will the seal compress enough over the brackets?

I removed old stripping off my leer which left some cruddy thick black silicone. I pulled some of it off but some paint strips came off. Should I pul?