KYB 334449 Suspension Strut - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Strut for Mazda 626

The KYB Excel-G 334449 is a rear suspension strut for 1998-2002 Mazda 626 models. It is built to restore original ride control, steering response, and body stability without changing the vehicle’s designed suspension behavior.

As part of the KYB Excel-G line, this strut is calibrated for OE-style performance and assembled on KYB’s OE production lines using OE-quality components. For Mazda 626 rear suspension service, 334449 is a direct replacement focused on restoring factory handling characteristics.

Key Features

• OE-style replacement for Asian vehicles, including Mazda applications
• Restores designed control and handling on the Mazda 626
• Nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube construction
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact, steering response, and body movement
• Strong strut body and bracket design helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Made in the USA
• Upper mount type: 14x1.50
• Compressed length: 15 in; extended length: 22.77 in; stroke length: 7.77 in

Detailed Description

KYB Excel-G part number 334449 is engineered for the rear suspension of the 1998-2002 Mazda 626. It is designed to return the vehicle to its original ride control characteristics, supporting stable braking, lane-change response, and predictable handling. This strut uses KYB’s OE-focused design approach, making it a practical choice for drivers and technicians replacing a worn rear suspension strut on a Mazda 626.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 71416 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive rear bounce or oscillation
• Reduced stability during braking and cornering
• Loose or delayed steering response from worn suspension damping
• Uneven tire contact caused by weak rear strut control
• Noise and vibration associated with aging strut components

Installation Notes and Tips

Fits 1998-2002 Mazda 626, rear. Replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. KYB recommends replacing strut mounts to reduce noise and vibration; use SM5407 and SM5408. A KYB strut boot, SB105, helps protect the strut from dirt, debris, and road salt. Verify upper mount thread size and suspension configuration before installation.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier, and Excel-G is built on the same KYB OE assembly lines with OE-quality components to restore original designed performance. Electronic safety systems depend on suspension, brakes, and tires working as intended, and this strut is engineered to help maintain that factory behavior.