KYB 551602 Suspension Strut - Front

KYB Gas-a-Just Front Strut for Crown Victoria

KYB Gas-a-Just 551602 is a front suspension strut built as an OE-style monotube replacement for vehicles that need restored steering response and controlled ride quality. It is a direct fit for 2003-2011 Ford Crown Victoria front applications, including taxi package models, and 2003-2004 Mercury Marauder front applications.

The Gas-a-Just line is KYB’s monotube strut family for heavier-duty use, with separate hydraulic and high-pressure gas chambers for quick response and consistent damping. This design is well suited to Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Marauder front suspension service where original handling balance and brake stability matter.

• OE monotube replacement for front suspension service
• High-pressure monotube design separates gas and oil for fade-resistant operation
• Triple chrome plated piston rod helps reduce seal wear
• Built for vehicles that tow, work, or use larger tires and wheels
• Helps restore steering response and handling control
• Includes dust cover
• Lower mount type: E2 (16.5 x 51.5)
• Upper mount type: S1 (12 mm)

Detailed Product Overview

KYB 551602 uses an air-free hydraulic piston area for responsiveness and a separate nitrogen gas chamber with a floating piston to maintain consistent control during normal driving and under load. The monotube layout supports quicker reaction to suspension movement, which is important on full-size rear-wheel-drive sedans such as the Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Marauder. This front strut is also a practical choice for Crown Victoria taxi package service where suspension performance and steering feel are part of the vehicle’s original design.

Key dimensions include a compressed length of 12.4 inches, extended length of 15.51 inches, and stroke length of 3.11 inches. KYB part number 551602 is engineered to match the intended front suspension geometry and restore the vehicle’s original control characteristics.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 553001 for the same application.

Common Problems This Strut Can Address

• Excessive front-end bounce or float
• Reduced steering response during lane changes or braking
• Uneven damping after high-mileage suspension wear
• Noise or vibration from worn front strut components
• Loss of control feel on heavier-duty or taxi-use vehicles

Installation Notes

Fits 2003-2011 Ford Crown Victoria, front, including taxi package notes where listed. Fits 2003-2004 Mercury Marauder, front. Replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. KYB recommends new strut mounts, part number SM5392, to reduce the chance of noise and vibration.

Quality Assurance

KYB is an OE suspension supplier, and the Gas-a-Just line is built as a monotube replacement to restore factory-style handling and control. The design also supports electronic safety systems by helping the suspension operate as the vehicle manufacturer intended.