E36 Strut Spring Guide/ Plate missing?
 

Hey Guys,

This is the first time for me working on struts and I think I may be missing some parts. Maybe they fell out. :-D
Is the Strut Spring plate or Spring guide visible from outside looking at the spring?
I've got a 92 E36 325is (01/92) and the spring actually moves back and forth when you turn the wheel. makes a terrible noise like it's hitting metal on metal.
I'm not sure what I'm missing the pad looks like its crushed,
Can you guys tell me what I should be able to see from looking outside?
I have not yet took it apart as I wanted to order everything I needed before doing so. I was also planning on getting new struts or possibly coil overs and not hurt the budget.




http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1365731661.jpg
The picture below shows the pad is crushed, but it seems like there should have a plate to hold the spring?
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1365731774.jpg

is the plate bottom lip #1 visible from outside looking at the spring? ( I think i see part of it from the top when opening hood)
from this diagram it looks like the spring connects to the upper pad #8, and then the plate lip #1?
is this correct?

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1365731449.jpg


I appreciate any feedback/suggestions!
Thanks guys!!

Anyone please?