Here are some pics of my 70 Cuda manual top.Mine where missing so I'm not sure on the exact mounting direction but this is how I think it goes. The holes are original. Let me know if you need any other pictures. This picture is measured from where the inner panel meets the wheel well cap 9 3/4 inches. All of these pictures are from the drivers side.

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4) This picture is measured from the seam to the bolt holes 3 1/2 inches

Looking at your pictures, I think the holes are in the right place but somebody drilled them but the bracket will cover the holes. I have no clue on the other questions I'm figuring it out as I go.

Thanks for the help guys. I've received a couple of photos that I wanted to share. Thanks to Terry, and John for sharing.

It's become pretty clear to me now why my manual top catch bracket assemblies had the tubular extension pieces (the extension pieces measure 3-3/8"). It's because the previous owner did an approximate 3" mini-tub to the rear wheel wells. Apparently, he also shortened the cross-brace as part of this mod. Looks like I'll need to reuse the extensions. When the bracket is placed over the mounting holes on the cross-brace, the nylon catch is about 3+" from the point where it needs to catch the frame. See attached photos for measurements of rear wheel well. What are your measurements? Thanks.