Concerns after rear shock replacement

[steve32]

I just changed the rear shocks on my 2000 ML430 at 84,000 miles. I'm pretty confident I replaced the shocks properly, however the rear sits noticeably higher than it did before, approximately 6 1/2 inches between the tire and outside fender well. Prior to the change, I'm going to guess the rear sat about 5 to 5 1/2 inches. The nut to compress the shock is also pretty much at the same position as the old shocks were. I'm concerned this will effect the handling and performance. I am also concerned I might have to get an alignment. The left rear coil was broken on the old ones, but outside of that I didn't notice a difference between the new and old ones. Could I possibly have overtightened a bolt that would cause this? Has anyone who changed their shocks experienced this and should I be concerned?