KYB 343177 Shock Absorber - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Shock Absorber

KYB Excel-G part number 343177 is a rear suspension shock absorber built to restore original ride control, stability, and handling. It is a direct-fit OE-style replacement for select Buick, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Cadillac applications, including rear shock service on the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Grand Am.

The Excel-G line is KYB’s OEA replacement series, produced on KYB OE assembly lines with OE-quality components and calibration focused on returning the vehicle to its designed performance. This nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube shock absorber is engineered for consistent damping and predictable response in everyday driving.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OEM replacement shock absorber
• Restores designed control and handling for GM rear suspension applications
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact, steering response, and body movement
• Supports proper operation of electronic safety systems by maintaining suspension behavior as engineered
• Strong strut body and bracket design helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Dust cover included

Product Details

KYB Excel-G 343177 is designed for rear suspension service on 1982-1994 GM compact and midsize cars, including Buick Skylark, Chevrolet Cavalier, Chevrolet Corsica, Oldsmobile Achieva, Pontiac Grand Am, and Pontiac Sunbird. It also cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 5776 for the same application. The part number 343177 is a practical OE-style choice when the goal is to restore factory-like ride quality rather than change suspension characteristics.

Compatible With 1992-1994 Buick Skylark, rear; 1982-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier, rear; 1987-1994 Chevrolet Corsica, rear; 1992-1994 Oldsmobile Achieva, rear; 1985-1994 Pontiac Grand Am, rear; and additional rear applications listed in the fitment table for select Buick, Cadillac, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac models.

Common Problems This Part Can Address

• Excessive bouncing after bumps
• Loose or unstable rear-end handling
• Reduced tire contact and uneven road control
• Delayed response during lane changes and cornering
• Oil seepage or gas leakage from a worn shock absorber

Installation Notes

For best results, replace the rear shock absorber according to the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. KYB recommends installing new strut mounts, part number SM5010, to reduce noise and vibration where applicable. On listed applications such as the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Grand Am, follow the service procedure for the suspension strut and coil spring assembly as specified by the manufacturer.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier to new vehicle manufacturers, and the Excel-G line is built on the same production lines used for OE applications. The design uses OE-quality components and application-specific damping calibration to help restore original suspension performance on compatible GM vehicles.