Dust cover problem for rear shocks

[bennybenster]

Car = 1990 CRX Si

I just installed my KYB AGX shocks and H&R springs. Front installed without problems. When I go to install the rear, I run into a problem. The diameter of the dust cover that came from the stock shock is smaller than the body of the KYB shock. When I went to test drive, the ride was bumpy as hell. As if the car didn't have springs. So I go to take them off and I find that the dust cover got stuck on the body of the shocks, preventing the spring from springing out.

I read a thread from 2001 and some guy was saying that he just didn't put the dust cover on. He had some Koni yellows and Koni told him that the dust cover is not needed. I also read that you can cut the dust cover. I went ahead and cut them but it's pretty much the same as not having them on cause it doesn't cover anyways.

So, what should I do? Would I be able to get some dust covers that have a diameter bigger than the stock ones? Will leaving the dust cover off be fine? Let me know. Thanks!

[marked001]

hack em off.... I've never run em and never had a problem..

[bennybenster]

Thanks...I actually got another advise from the Suspension section telling me that it's not good not to have the cover. I ordered some KYB dust boots from www.tirerack.com just for the rear. The front ones work just fine. But if you say you haven't had any problems, then I believe you. But I'd rather be safe than sorry.

[4G4D Store]

I haven't had dust covers on my stock struts for a couple years - no problems.