Damaged strut holder?, My working theory on why my new strut will not fit. Options

[Chaznaster]

Hi All.

I was installing struts in the holders to put back on after a full front suspension rebuild when I had a surprise. The new Bilstein B6s fit perfectly in the right housing but not in the other, where they both stopped 2 inches short of the bottom.

When I pulled the old struts the car had one Boge (black) and one KYB (silver). At that time, I figured it was a cheap PO who got free parts or was saving money and replaced only one. I have a different theory now.

The KYB diameter is a few millimeters different than the Boge and the new Bilsteins. It is the only one that fits in the left side holder. Looking down the tube with a flashlight, I see a very slight bulge on one side. I confirmed it by dragging a piece of rod over it and could feel the transition.

My conclusion is that the left holder was hit and bent. The PO (or their mechanic) slapped in the KYB as they could not get the Boge to fit it either, and the extra few mm made the difference.

If I am right about the bend, I just cannot figure out how to bend it back without damaging the tube. I assume I will need a new left holder/knuckle - UGH.

So, is this theory plausible? If so, any recommendations on where to source a replacement? This is a rescue car so does not need to be pristine - just mechanically intact and functional.

EDIT: I am also looking for advice on how to stop the strut from spinning when I put the nut on the top.

Thanks for your thoughts ...