Gap in stabilizer bar link connection

I noticed a gap in the stabilizer bar link connection the other day on my 1998 XJ, and I am not sure as to what is causing it. I thought maybe the nut had backed out, but I put the torque wrench on it and it is at the proper torque.

Here is what caught my attention (notice the gap on the left side):



The other side has a similar gap as well. I am going to be changing out the steering links in the next month or two, so I will put new bushings on the stabilizer bar as well.

Any idea what is causing this gap?

Both sides have a gap, so likely it is normal. The stock swaybar links on both of my XJ's are long gone, but I never worried much about little things that likely don't matter.

Yep, it's normal. The attachment point on the left has metal contacting the through-ring in the stabilizer bushing, so its not really a gap, just looks like one compared to the nut contact on the right.

Thanks Tim, and asymptonic, I appreciate the information.