Sorry I can't offer any help but we have the same problem getting the pins into the poles of our Montana canopy, it was such a struggle I thought we were going to tear the canopy! I would be grateful to hear if anyone can offer any advice too!
New to this site but have found it a great place to pick up helpful tips!
Have you tried loosening the tension straps then ringing and pining then tightening the straps up again ?
As for the gap ,it will probably differ every time you pitch due to slopes ect ,altho it may be draughty you will probably find you have better ventilation so less condensation .
i always have trouble getting the pins into the poles. I have solved this by getting hubby to do it while i hold the other one in on the other side. I think i'm too gentle when i try to put them in, i worry about ripping the tent.
Not much help i know but perhaps you need to be a bit more aggressive with it.
WE have a similar issue with our nebraska - loosening the strips makes it possible and then having the SIG pulled out as much as possible and the tent pulled over the poles once one end was in helped. I was a bit concerned but when we went to the camping shop the display wasn't much different ot ours which was reassuring.
One of you holds the pole and pin, pulling it as close as you can, while the OH pulls the tent over the pole towards you, and eventually, with a struggle, you can just about do it!
Hoping someone would have the real answer ... is there one?
Have you tried loosening the tension straps then ringing and pining then tightening the straps up again ?
As for the gap ,it will probably differ every time you pitch due to slopes ect ,altho it may be draughty you will probably find you have better ventilation so less condensation .