Hi helpful people, I have a three-part question.

First, I bought a Specialized multi-stem on Ebay. My bike does not have a carbon steerer so I know to use grease on the steerer before installing. But do I grease the shim before installing in the stem? It is a very tight fit. I would assume no, but want to be sure.

Second, the instructions for this stem that I looked up online indicate the top cap is sloped and has two directions, and that it should match the shim installed. Mine does not appear to be sloped- instead it is slotted. I’m assuming the slot makes the sloped cap unnecessary? Seems like the slot would be a path for water/sweat though.

Third and finally - I’ve adjusted plenty of threadless headsets but always by feel (hold front wheel, rock bike to make sure there is no play in headset). Is there another trick? This bike is sitting on a direct drive trainer and has neither a front or rear wheel currently. I can remove it and install some wheels if that is the only way to really adjust the headset, but thought I would consult experts first though.

Thanks!