[V8] Bilsteins on the rear

[dsaad at icehouse.net]

A while ago I put new Bilsteins on the rear, and one of them started to
make a creaking noise. I replaced it today and noticed that the top of the
shock threaded shaft was rubbing on the body of the car. It sticks up
about 1/2 inch above the nut. I noticed that when I installed them but did
not realize it would be a problem. I put a spacer in there and now all is
fine but I am wondering - is there supposed to be something in there? I
did not install the shock boot - I was told it was not necessary, but does
it have a spacer in it? I was also told I did not need a bump stop as it
is internal to the shock. Is this true?

Dave