Need help on a suspension issue

[adikted2speed]

I just installed some 5100's all the way around. I went for a drive around the block and heard what sounded like loose components up front. When I got back and looked around I noticed that the top part of the shock sticks through the mount too far so even with the bolt tightened all the way, there is still play. Almost like I'm missing a rubber washer-but I'm not (unless Bilsteins stiffed me). I'm using factory springs and the shock is on the 2.5" setting, coil is properly seated, the three mounting bolts are properly seated and tightened. What am I missing? Both sides are this way, however the driver side has more of a gap than the passenger side. I'm at a loss and this is my DD but I know I can't drive it this way, any ideas would be greatly appreciated. I'll try and post pics tomorrow morning.

 

[slotoyo]

Are you talking about the 3 nuts that hold the top hat ok the upper control arm? I know when I swapped my fronts with coils it felt like forever tightening those. When I would try and cross tighten them it seemed like the other would have more and more play but it tightened after a while

 

[T101]

post picture

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Did you do the install or a shop? I bet you're missing the lower washer/cushion. Best I can remember Bilstein doesn't provide these on the front. See this pic for reference.

http://www.top4runners.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?/ja/2007/lift/spacerplacement1.jpg

 

[adikted2speed]

Did you do the install or a shop? I bet you're missing the lower washer/cushion. Best I can remember Bilstein doesn't provide these on the front. See this pic for reference.

http://www.top4runners.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?/ja/2007/lift/spacerplacement1.jpg

That's exactly what I'm missing. That sucks. Looks like I get to do the front struts twice, oh the joy! thanks for your help and the diagram.

 

[Brownfaux]

Also check sway bar end links. I've had noise from them too.