5100 help!!!

So I installed my adjustable 5100s and clearly did something wrong...when the shock travels, the shaft moves up and down in the hat rather than the shaft traveling in and out of the shock body. It looks like if I hit a big enough bump or dip the shaft might pop through the inner fender well...if that makes any sense.
One other thing: I didn't install the black boot that came with the shocks. The one that covers the shaft. Does that have something to do with it?

Thanks in advance for the help

 

Can you take a pic? I can't picture what you're describing.

 

Shaft is moving in the top plate, where the bushing sits.

Improperly installed bushing is my guess.

 

From what I've read, the top plate on the 2nd gens have the lower rubber bushing already in place. From bottom shock mount at lca up, my placement goes: shock, coil, top hat (and supposed existing bushing) small washer, 1" rubber spacer, big washer, top nut. When I looked at the black boot that would go on the shock shaft inside the coil it did have a metal ring at the top where it would touch the top plate...so maybe that is what I am missing?
I'll have a pic up as son as I get home
Thanks

 

Max2345:
What bushing order would be proper for this install?
Thanks

 

Should be from top to bottom- nut, washer, rubber bushing, top hat. IIRC. Then under the had should be a washer then the the dust boot. Actually, the washer and boot might be one assembly. I can't really remember.

 

Zac808:
You are correct. I found a few pics and talked to the boys at downsouth ms. I pulled it all apart, recompressed the coil, changed the washer/bushing assembly order...and note sh tides like a dream.
Thanks everyone

 

*she rides
not sh tides

 

Where in so cal are you I done a bunch of install , I could take a look at it.

 

Manwithoutaplan:
I split my time between redondo beach and san diego...but I got the shocks figured out. Thanks for the offer though

 

If up LA area contact Manwithoutaplan if you need any help...

In SD I will lend a hand as I can...