What type of wood are you using for the replacement? Is it a softwood or a hardwood? I would offer the type of wood would affect the answer to your question.
I am replacing 4 ribs ( in my Murray 4dr TS) my question is how are you getting the ends of the rib under the metal part of the roof ??? .. The look to be 3/4 inch under it on both sides.. maybe the coupes are different than the 4drs...
What type of wood are you using for the replacement? Is it a softwood or a hardwood? I would offer the type of wood would affect the answer to your question.
I just bought a replacement rib from Snyders, so it is Oak or Ash. It has been in my office for a few months now, and I just bought the top kit. I just figured they would need to be sealed or something before installation.
Seal it with anything oil based,paint,Polyurethane,etc. Since it will not be visible like the closed cab pick-up's, it does not matter what color it is.