Not Crap! I said it's NORMAL for some shocks to look 'upside down', that is, to have the tube on top and the rod on the bottom. No 'custom' shock needed. So quit worrying and just order whatever replacement shock you prefer for your car. As long as it's the correct replacement for a 1985 190D it should fit, regardless of which way the rod and tube is made.

Happy Motoring, Mark

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DrDKW