Should I be able to see any light at the reed tips or through the sides of my VForce4R reed valve system?

All VForce4R should seal completely at the reed tip. However there will always be a sliver of light visible on the sides of a brand new assembly. This is unavoidable due to the design which incorporates a concave surface that preloads the reed tip. After use, this sliver of light typically disappears as the reeds break-in and become seated. This has absolutely zero impact on performance.