I had a similar issue installing some Monroe shocks on an S10. They were heavily spring loaded(maybe to augment the springs). I think I used Erwin hand clamps to squeeze them into position.
I installed RS5000s a couple of weeks ago on our 2500HD. They were spring loaded but only lightly. Pushed them easily into place by hand. (I know - the 9000s are the talk of the town, but I make decision on what "I" think I need)
Comparing them to the factory shock by hand(with 66000 miles on them), they felt about the same. Not sure if they will be any improvement over the factory hardware.
They were a bit larger in diameter.
Hope that I didn't pay extra money only for cute red boots.
