Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
I don't remember why I cut the strap before installing the shocks. It was either they were too short in the compressed position to reach the top or I couldn't reach far in enough between the coils with a tool to cut the strap. It's a been a while since I installed 'em...
Yes, it appears we're "neighbors". My wife and I live out in the country southeast of Mount Pleasant and it's a bit less than 50 miles to Longview.
Bill
