Hot Rod Poncho

I'm struggling to correctly install the hood side panels to my 2527A. I removed them and the cowl brackets when I first got the car over a decade ago. I normally take pictures prior to removal, but forgot to take pics this time. I know that there are only two ways the brackets attach to the cowl, but I want to make certain they are properly installed. I am also in the process of reinstalling the stainless trim at the side panel louvers. The trim is flat across the mounting point, but the panels have a small arch. This makes me wonder if the small clips are strong enough to overcome the tension created by the arch. Pictures that I've seen make that area appear perfectly flat. I assume that I will have to somehow remove that arch without damaging the paint on the panels. Any help is very much appreciated. Thank you.