Is it possible to install struts/springs backwards?! May have screwed up...

[Cerebral_1]

Hey guys, I just installed new rear Rallitek overload springs and KYB struts, and I am waiting for an alignment right now. Wasn't a huge pain, but took forever with just hand tools (no impact).

 

Anyway, after removing the old struts, I was so excited to put the new ones together and get them in, I realize I should've been more careful. Right before I put my wheels on last night, I saw that the one shock body has the KYB sticker facing OUTSIDE, and the other one has the KYB sticker facing INSIDE--does anyone know if these are symmetrical? Should this matter or affect strut life/performance?

 

Also, I recall the bottom spring perches on the original shocks were oriented so the bottom end of the springs were facing INSIDE. After installation, I have one facing OUTSIDE (the one on the strut with the KYB sticker facing outside), and the other one facing inside but at a slight off-angle (I think rotated toward the front). Should the shocks operate the same way regardless of orientation? Or does this make a big difference?

 

Lastly, not sure if it's related or not, but I now have a noise from the rear I didn't have before. Starting at about 20 mph, I get a whirring/pulsating sound that increases with speed, even in neutral. It almost sounds like something is rubbing (I installed wider tires last month), but I checked underneath and have clearance all around

 

This was my first time doing my own struts/springs and I've learned a lot, including the need to be more detail-oriented. I would rather not take everything apart again, especially since I am about to go on a road trip today, but want to get it right and definitely don't want to damage anything.

 

Any thoughts or advice is MUCH appreciated!

[Cerebral_1]

TLDR; Does anyone know if rear shocks are symmetrical? Do shocks/springs operate the same way regardless of orientation?

[whitetiger]

yes, rear shocks are symetrical

[Cerebral_1]

Thanks!

 

What about the springs? Do they need to be set in a specific orientation relative to the shock/hub? I'm guessing it matters less since I am using new springs instead of reusing the old ones (old ones could have issues lining up if not installing in the same direction they were originally)...but I'm not sure.

[whitetiger]

as long as the bottom of the spring is right on the lower spring perch, you are good