E36 Strut Spring Guide/ Plate missing?

[rdbrock]

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.





The picture below shows the pad is crushed, but it seems like there should have a plate to hold the spring?


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?




I appreciate any feedback/suggestions!
Thanks guys!!

[rdbrock]

Anyone please?