Bilstein's don't fit right.
 

Was trying to install a new set of bilstein struts (oem replacement) on my g last night and the bilstein struts are 1" or more shorter than the factory sport tuned suspension struts. Does anyone know what effect that would have?

OEM replacement are exact fit and stroke length............maybe you mean oem substitues.

Most shocks have 7" total stroke length expanded to fully compressed to allow +- 3.5" body movement.