Hey xix,

The wd40 won't effect the spine - it'll just help the spin.

I haven't found any difference pulling up vs pushing down. I've only found it easier to push down for control and rolling.

The mark you put at 12 o'clock (when pushing down) is the Neutral Bend Point (NBP). THIS MARK (NBP) goes to 9 o'clock (RH golfer), with the spine at 3 o'clock.