1974 VW Beadle

Three questions I need help with:
1. I replaced the old shocks with gas shocks. It seems to bottom out or "up", making a stiff noise, a clunk sound. A local VW expert says I don't need gas shocks on the front, that it makes the front too bouncy and tops and bottoms out. What do you think? Anyone had the same experience?

2.Inside the car, the tube running from the steering wheel to the floor is loose and rattles. The steering is tight. Have any of you had this problem? If so, how did you resolve it?

3.I need a diagram of the front ventilzation system as the old tubing has rotted out. Do you know where I can find one?

thanks.

Jim H.