KYB 361005 Suspension Strut Cartridge - Front

KYB Excel-G Front Strut Cartridge for Volkswagen

The KYB Excel-G 361005 is a front suspension strut cartridge built to restore original ride control, stability, and steering response. It is a recommended OEM replacement gas cartridge for select Volkswagen Cabriolet, Jetta, Rabbit Convertible, and Rabbit Pickup applications.

KYB’s Excel-G line is engineered on the same OE assembly lines used for original equipment production and calibrated to return the vehicle to its designed handling balance. For Volkswagen front strut service, part number 361005 is a direct-fit solution for restoring suspension performance without changing the vehicle’s original character.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OEM replacement gas cartridge
• Restores designed control, handling, and body movement
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact and steering response
• Nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design
• Strong strut body and bracket construction helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Compatible with electronic safety systems that rely on suspension performance

Product Details

The KYB Excel-G brand line is focused on OE-style replacement for drivers who want the suspension to perform as the manufacturer originally calibrated it. This strut cartridge uses OE-quality components and is classified by KYB as Original Equipment for the Aftermarket. The 361005 is designed for front suspension service on 1980-1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 1980-1983 Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup, 1980-1984 Volkswagen Rabbit Convertible, and 1985-1993 Volkswagen Cabriolet.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 72826 for the same application.

What It Helps Fix

• Excessive front-end bounce or float
• Loose steering feel or delayed response
• Reduced braking stability during weight transfer
• Uneven tire contact caused by worn damping control
• Noise and vibration from aging front suspension components

Installation Notes and Tips

• Fits 1985-1993 Volkswagen Cabriolet, front; 1980-1984 Volkswagen Jetta, front; 1980-1984 Volkswagen Rabbit Convertible, front; and 1980-1983 Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup, front.
• For certain applications, reuse the original internal-threaded strut body nut or replace it with VW P/N 823412047.
• KYB recommends new strut mounts, part number SM5011, to reduce noise and vibration.
• Use a KYB strut boot, part number SB109, to help protect the cartridge from dirt, debris, and salt.
• Verify the vehicle uses non-sealed struts before ordering.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier to vehicle manufacturers, and the Excel-G line is produced on the same assembly lines used for original equipment shocks and struts. Part number 361005 is built to OE-style specifications for consistent front suspension performance on the listed Volkswagen applications.