Once a stem top cap has been tightened the correct amount and the stem has been clamped to the steerer, does the top cap play any role in stem/steerer fit...other than cosmetics? I am assuming that the clamping force of the stem is sufficient to prevent slippage such that the top cap is not expected to keep the stem from movement.

Bottom line.....if I remove the top cap (while everything else is in good shape), do I risk any unseen missalignment before I reinstall it (no ride time while removed).