I have a 2009 dmax and am putting same brand shocks on the front. There is no diagram with the shocks and nothing on line from the manufacturer so a bit of a guess - but that smaller collar you put on top of the shock under the larger collar and bushing - there were 2 of those in my kit so I figure they are to space each side of the lower end horizontal assembly if needed. Now I am not sure what is correct.

I think the handbrake lever should be on the outer edge not inside the shoe. I’ve changed mine a few times and watching other videos it’s on the outside. Ie you can see it when you pull the drum off.

on ya mate

I replaced mine today. And tightened the breaker via the back bung. I took it for a test drive and the braking felt good. I decided to tighten a little more and now the brakes feel very spongy. Any suggestions?

Gee a bit of maintenance and you call it a lemon ? Looks like you got your dollars worth out of the shocks