strut bearing noises

[mark.e.woodland at gsk.com]

I just replaced the shocks and springs on the '87 5KTQ with Bilstiens and
H&Rs,
at the same time replacing all componants at the top of the front struts,
i.e.  strut bearings, housings, and dust boots.
The shakedown cruise reveals a creaking in the right front.. never had that
before, even with 265K on the originals,
and an intermittant vibration.. 10-15 seconds smooth followed by 10-15
seconds of vibration.
The car got a 4 wheel alignment @ 1 degree - camber and 0 degrees tow-in,
all 4 corners.
I'm suspecting the lower control arm bushings for the intermittant
vibration, and will check tonight, but what's up with the new strut
bearings?
The H&Rs lowered the front 1.5" - 2". Could the new geometry be binding the
system, or am I overlooking something?
Best regards,
Mark Woodland
Max '87 5KTQ 265K
Gina '86 5KTQA 240K