Okay guys the other day I decided to replace all my shocks on my 2003 Xk8 and I did some research on b6 HD shocks for it. So I purchased them and when they got here I was ready to throw them in with a pair of h&r lowering springs but I saw the HD's were about 1 inch shorter than the oe shocks. Should I be concerned about this?

 

1" shorter at full extension? Unless you plan to off road it, I wouldn't worry too much. It should make changing a tire quicker.

The swaybar will likely limit the total travel in normal driving (you'd have to unload both sides to top one side out)

I have H&R springs, Bilsteins and they are firm but not harsh and I hit rough,raised railroad track crossings @ 50 mph and it feels totally damped and in control. Handling is excellent.

 

You lucked out.

Since you are installing lowering springs, a short shock is ideal.