Maybe your suspension is stiff because it can't travel like mine!

https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...e-img_0346.jpg

I have Eibach's with Dot 1 pads and adjustable camber links and my swaybar is hitting the frame and the camber link. Check yours and let me know.

The bump stops are a protection for the shock. If you don't cut them you won't have full travel before hitting the stop. But if the sway bar is hitting the frame and upper link then it will never get near the bump stop.

I would just follow the instructions and do the final tightening on the ground.

Les