are the rear springs supposed to sit loose in the shock housing after installation? these are stock ap2 shocks.

 

Two of mine were "loose" when I installed them, although I don't remember if they were the fronts or the rears. However, this was at maximum extension of the assembly (car in the air). There wasn't much movement of the springs, but there was a tiny bit. I simply adjusted the top hat portion and slowly lowered the car. Good thing was I didn't need to use a spring compressor to put those things on.

 

yea thats normal! make sure the top hat is tight and put the wheels on and drive the damn thing.

 

don't forget to preload the suspension when tightening everything up.