KYB 344040 Shock Absorber - Front

KYB Excel-G Front Shock Absorber

KYB Excel-G 344040 is a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube suspension shock absorber built to restore original ride control on GM S-Series applications. It is an OE-style replacement for front suspension service on Chevrolet Blazer, GMC Jimmy, Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, and related fitments.

The Excel-G line is KYB’s OEA replacement series, produced on KYB OE assembly lines with OE-quality components and damping calibration focused on returning the vehicle to its original handling balance. Part number 344040 is made in the USA and is engineered for front-end stability, steering response, and consistent tire contact.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OE replacement shock absorber
• Nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage body motion and steering response
• Strong strut body and bracket design helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Made in USA
• Supports proper operation of electronic safety systems by helping preserve suspension geometry and tire contact

Fitment and Application

• Fits 1995-2005 Chevrolet Blazer, front; optional twin tube replacement; Excel-G.
• Fits 1995-2004 GMC Jimmy, front; optional twin tube replacement; Excel-G.
• Fits 1995-2003 Chevrolet S10, front; optional twin tube replacement; Excel-G.
• Fits 1995-2003 GMC Sonoma, front; optional twin tube replacement; Excel-G.
• Fits 1996-2000 Isuzu Hombre, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1982-1994 Chevrolet S10, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1983-1994 Chevrolet S10 Blazer, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1992-1994 GMC Jimmy, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1991-1994 GMC Sonoma, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1983-1991 GMC S15 Jimmy, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.
• Fits 1982-1990 GMC S15, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions; Excel-G.

What This Shock Absorber Helps Address

• Excessive front-end bounce after bumps
• Loose or unstable steering feel on Chevrolet S10 and GMC Sonoma platforms
• Reduced body control during lane changes and braking
• Uneven tire contact caused by worn suspension damping
• Noise or fluid loss associated with aging shock absorber seals

Installation Notes

Verify compressed length, extended length, stroke, and mount types before installation: compressed length 8.27, extended length 12.8, stroke length 4.53, lower mount type E3(56X82X15), upper mount type S1. Some listed applications require replacement of the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Confirm the vehicle’s front suspension configuration before ordering and follow factory service procedures for torque and alignment checks.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 37129 for the same application.

Quality Assurance

KYB supplies shocks and struts to vehicle manufacturers and builds the Excel-G line on the same OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. The 344040 is calibrated to restore original designed performance rather than alter it, making it a direct-fit service part for front suspension repair on GM S-Series trucks and SUVs.