Hey guys, I could really need your help!

Just had a friend help me replace my stock front struts with KYB Excel-G including some new mounts/bearings. When driving back home, I noticed that the steering wheel makes a clicking sound when turned (left or right).
With the car parked, I got my daughter to turn the steering wheel for me while I was touching the strut spring and I can feel the vibration on the spring when the sound is made. It's like something is getting rubbed and causing the vibration/noise.
I don't think anything part of the new strut should be greased? Or is this a result of over-tightening nuts/bolt involved in the job?
Or is this normal and should be fine over time?

 

I'm trying to recall if my friend tightened the mounts while the car what on jack mounts so when dropped, presses the mount to the car too hard and causes the squeak/vibration?

 

It’s possible? Generally its suggested that all suspension components are torqued while the suspension is loaded.

 

So I removed the lid to access the shock mount nut and base and noticed that what's left of the strut bolt is too short than what's I've seen on the web. I didn't bother loosening the nut.




When I turn the steering wheel, I could feel the vibration on the strut mount as well.
Now, I'm starting to wonder if the shocks weren't assembled properly before they were put on... Sigh.

Also, is the rubber from the picture suppose to float like what this fellow said he found from newer fits? https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/3rd-...ide-strut.html
Anyone who has changed their front struts, I'd really appreciate it if you'd share our experience and what may have gone wrong with mine. Thanks!
I'm going back to my friend to get this fixed so it would be great if I have something to tell him what to do to get it sorted.