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OE Spec Rear Ride Control For Your Classic Ranger
The KYB Excel-G rear shock absorber is engineered to OE specifications, giving classic Ford Ranger 4WD owners a dependable factory feel replacement for worn rear shocks. KYB344051 restores consistent ride comfort and handling on these long running trucks.
Key Features
- KYB344051 uses OE spec valving for a factory ride feel
- Gas charged design reduces fade during extended driving
- Direct bolt-on replacement, no modification required
- KYB344051 maintains factory ride height and handling characteristics
- Twin tube design built to KYB manufacturing tolerances
- Built for the 4WD rear suspension geometry used on these trucks
Fitment Table
| Year Range | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1983-1989 | Ford | Ranger | 4WD |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| MPN | 344051 |
| Brand | KYB |
| Series | Excel-G |
| Position | Rear |
| Design | Gas charged twin tube |
| UPC | Not publicly listed by manufacturer |
What's Included
- One KYB344051 Excel-G rear shock absorber
About KYB
KYB has manufactured shocks and struts for original equipment and aftermarket applications for decades, supplying ride control components trusted by truck owners across North America. The Excel-G line matches OE specifications to deliver a reliable factory feel replacement for daily driven and classic vehicles.
FAQ
What is the KYB344051?The KYB344051 is an Excel-G rear shock absorber built for the 1983-1989 Ford Ranger 4WD. It uses OE spec valving in a gas charged twin tube design to restore consistent ride comfort on these classic trucks.
Will this fit a 2WD Ranger from that era?No, this shock is specific to the 4WD rear suspension setup for those model years.
Is this a direct bolt-on or will I need to modify anything?It's a direct bolt-on replacement that installs at the factory shock mounting points without modification.
Should I replace both rear shocks at once?It's sold individually, but KYB recommends replacing shocks in pairs for even handling, especially on an older truck.
Will this change the ride height of my truck?No, it's designed to restore factory ride height rather than lift or lower the truck.
Does it come with a warranty given how old this platform is?Yes, it carries KYB's standard limited warranty against manufacturing defects, same as their current production shocks.
Do I need any special tools to install this on an older truck?Standard hand tools are enough, though older mounting hardware can be rusted or seized, so penetrating oil and patience help.
Is this a good match if I've done other suspension work on my Ranger?It's built to factory valving specs, so it pairs well with stock or lightly modified setups, but heavily modified suspensions may call for a different shock.
Install Instructions
- Raise the rear of the truck and support it on jack stands.
- Remove the rear wheel for clearance to the shock mounting points.
- Remove the upper and lower shock mounting bolts to free the factory shock.
- Position the KYB344051 in place and install the lower mounting bolt first.
- Secure the upper mount and torque all fasteners to factory specification.
- Reinstall the wheel and repeat on the opposite side.
KYB
KYB offers a complete line of shock absorbers, struts, and strut assemblies for cars, trucks, SUVs and Cross-overs. We also design and manufacture steering stabilizers, and provide a full line of shock and strut accessories including mounting hardware, coil spring insulators, coil springs, strut mounts, jounce bumpers, and bellows. KYB is one of the world’s largest suppliers of shocks and struts for new vehicle manufacturers. Our products can be found on some of the most popular cars, SUVs and trucks in North America. Because we make ‘original equipment’ we know exactly how vehicles perform and handle when new, and we can help keep them operating as designed, for as long as they’re on the road. The KYB catalog includes the following models: Excel-G, Strut-Plus, Gas-a-Just, MonoMax, Truck-Plus, KYB JAOS, Truck-Plus, Leveling Assembly, Strut Mounts and Boots, Steering Stabilizers, Self-Leveling & Electronic Shocks.
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