new closed loop bho question

hey guys so I have done bho open blasting with the glass tubes....I just got one of the mini 45 gram closed loop extractor from best value vvacs. I got it from a friend of a friend or I will gota go pick it up today. its only been used a couple times and I got a amazing deal on it....so steping up to a closed loop system I have a couple quick questions. First is there any difference in packing the tube meaning how tight or how much the bud is broken up. I usually break it up into small buds. second should I run the butane right through or should I let it soak? if soak how long? I think that's all the questions for now but open to any advice. Thanks guys

The columns are packed the same. Firmly.

I run it straight through and then turn it upside down to soak if you I more time. You can tell looking at the spent material through a microscope, whether you have removed the trichome heads or not.