Is it safe to use a Targa top without the front pins? (bonus front spoiler question)
 

As far as I can tell the only function of the front pins is to positively locate the front of the top in the windshield header so that it can be latched - all of the retention is done by the latches. I've been working on top fitment issues (see past posts) and have made some significant improvements in quieting it down on the highway. But if the top were maybe 5mm further rearward, it would be pretty much perfect, meaning quiet at the front edge. My side seals don't appear to be interfering with the Targa bar though I may try reinstalling them anyway. But I'm about to take a trip with the car and will certainly have the top on at some points and quiet without using duct tape would be nice. Unfortunately there's no real fore-aft adustability of the front pins beyong maybe a mm or so from the play in the holes they're mounted in. So it occurred to me that I might could just take them out as a short-term solution. But I seek the opinions of better-informed Pelicans.

Bonus question: can I mount a front spoiler to my non-spoiler lower fascia without drilling a ton of little holes for the clips? IOW do they all have the mounting holes? Don't have access to car now.

I’d imagine the front pins also help locating the top in several directions as the chassis flexes, so I wouldn’t remove them. By chance have you replaced the front windshield seal? The one Porsche now sells is designed for the 964 and doesn’t allow the top to fit flush as it should. Porsche also used a small ‘P’ shaped seal to help with wind noise when required, and it’s noted in their service booklet. However, I feel it’s best to simply enjoy your Targa with the roof removed whenever possible!

Yes, I replaced the seal with Dan's part this summer. That and bending the clips on the front edge of the top helped a lot. I drive the car with the top off whenever possible, but I may hit rain somewhere, and I'm anticipating some colder temps at night that my backdated heating system can't keep up with with the top off.

Maybe give Dan a call personally as he would probably be the best source of information. BTW, my old 75 Targa with SSI heat exchangers would blast us with all the heat we wanted, so you might check if your flapper valves are closing all the way.

For the record, Dan's comment was, "The front pins keep the top from sliding side to side and possibly un-latch."