KYB 344049 Shock Absorber - Front

KYB Excel-G Front Shock Absorber

The KYB Excel-G 344049 is a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube suspension shock absorber built to restore original ride control, stability, and steering response. It is an OE-style replacement for domestic truck applications, including Ford F-150, Ford F-250, Ford Bronco, and Dodge Dakota front suspension service.

Key Features

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

Excel-G Product Line Details

KYB Excel-G is built on the same OE assembly lines used for original equipment supply and uses OE-quality components. The line is calibrated to return the vehicle to its original damping characteristics rather than changing ride feel, making the KYB 344049 a practical choice for front suspension repair on trucks and SUVs that need factory-style control.

Fitment

• Fits 1997-2004 Dodge Dakota, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Fits 1998-2003 Dodge Durango, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Fits 1997-1999 Ford F-250, front; recommended OEM replacement, over 8500 GVW.
• Fits 1997 Ford F-250 HD, front; recommended OEM replacement, over 8500 GVW.
• Fits 1980-1997 Ford F-350, front; recommended OEM replacement, except motorhome.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford Bronco, front; recommended OEM replacement, except quad shock option.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford Bronco, front; recommended OEM replacement, quad shock option - rearward mounting of the front axle.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford F-150, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford F-150, front; recommended OEM replacement, without quad shock option.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford F-150, front; recommended OEM replacement, quad shock option - rearward mounting of the front axle.
• Fits 1980-1996 Ford F-250, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Fits 1989 Ford Bronco II, front; recommended OEM replacement, to 9/1989.
• Fits 1989 Ford Ranger, front; recommended OEM replacement, except High Ryder option, to 9/1989.
• Fits 1984-1988 Ford Bronco II, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Fits 1983-1988 Ford Ranger, front; recommended OEM replacement, except High Ryder option.
• Fits 1980-1983 Ford F-100, front; replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive front-end bounce after bumps or braking
• Loose steering feel and delayed lane-change response
• Reduced tire contact caused by worn damping control
• Body movement that affects stability in turns and stops
• Leak-related shock performance loss

Installation Notes

Verify mount style before ordering: lower mount type E2(12X38) and upper mount type S1. Compressed length is 9.25 inches, extended length is 14.76 inches, and stroke length is 5.51 inches. On listed Dodge Dakota and Dodge Durango applications, replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. For Ford F-150, Ford F-250, Ford Bronco, Ford Ranger, Ford Bronco II, Ford F-100, and Ford F-350 front applications, confirm the exact suspension configuration, including quad shock and GVW notes, before installation. The KYB 344049 is a direct-fit front shock absorber for the specified applications.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a supplier of original equipment shocks and struts to vehicle manufacturers, and Excel-G is produced on the same OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 37034) for the same application.