KYB 343162 Shock Absorber - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Shock for Classic Ford and Mercury

KYB Excel-G shock absorber 343162 is an OE-style replacement built to restore original ride control, stability, and handling on select classic domestic cars. It is a rear suspension shock for applications including the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Lincoln Continental, and Lincoln Mark VII.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OEM replacement shock for classic domestic cars
• Restores designed control and handling for classic Ford and Mercury applications
• Nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design for consistent damping response
• 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 construction helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Dust cover included
• Part number: 343162

About the Excel-G Line

KYB Excel-G is calibrated to restore original, designed performance rather than change the vehicle’s character. Built on KYB OE assembly lines with OE-quality components, the line is classified as OEA (Original Equipment for the Aftermarket). For owners searching for a KYB 343162 rear shock absorber for a classic Ford Thunderbird or Mercury Cougar, Excel-G provides a direct replacement approach focused on factory-style ride control.

Detailed Description

KYB 343162 is engineered for rear suspension service on classic Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln models where maintaining original handling balance matters. With a compressed length of 13.39 in, extended length of 23.03 in, and stroke length of 9.65 in, this shock is built around the correct travel range for the listed applications. The lower mount type is E2(12.8X38) and the upper mount type is S1. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 5861 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive rear-end bounce after bumps
• Loose or unstable handling in turns
• Reduced tire contact over uneven pavement
• Delayed steering response and body movement control
• Oil or gas leakage from a worn shock absorber

Installation Notes and Fitment

Compatible With 1984-1992 Lincoln Mark VII, rear; 1981-1988 Ford Thunderbird, rear; 1987-1988 Mercury Cougar, rear; 1982-1987 Lincoln Continental, rear; 1981-1986 Mercury Cougar, rear; 1980 Ford Thunderbird, rear from 12/80; and 1980 Mercury Cougar, rear from 12/80. Installation notes for several applications specify replacing the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Verify mount style and rear suspension configuration before installation.

Quality Assurance

KYB supplies shocks and struts to new vehicle manufacturers, and the Excel-G line is produced on the same KYB OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. That manufacturing approach supports consistent fit and damping performance for classic Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Lincoln Continental, and Lincoln Mark VII rear suspension service.