I'm installing new Bilstein struts and, the shafts (new and old) seem too short for the nut to go on when combined with the rubber mount, washer and the strut place. I can't even start to catch a thread. What gives? I don't have a manual... could someone explain what I'm doing wrong, or point me to a diagram? Thank you..

 

what model/year car? which model/version bilstein, sure they are the right ones for the car?

 

Sorry, 940SE wagon. I got it figured out, main confusion was my new bumpstop/boot was up too far, needed to be pushed down past where it wanted to land. I put the conical washer convex side up....? Thank you. ("strut place"?)