I just changed the 2 front shocks on my '85 Firebird V6. I bought the cheap Munroe's (part # 801728). In the box, the shock was in the retracted position (hydraulic rod pushed all the way in the cylinder). I gave one rod a counterclockwise turn and the rod extended on its own to the fully extended position. On the second shock, I did the same thing but the rod only came out a couple of inches. I had to pull it out all the way by hand.

Is this normal?
Is this OK?
Does this indicate that the shock is missing some gas?
Should I return it?

It's on the car now and everything seems to be working as designed.

Thanks

 

they are bad, take'em back