Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper handling, installation, and maintenance of your KYB SHOCKS 339084 Gas Strut. The KYB Gas Strut is a precision-engineered automotive suspension component designed to restore original ride comfort and control by providing optimal damping force. For best results and safety, please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation.

Figure 1: The KYB SHOCKS 339084 Gas Strut. This image displays the complete gas strut assembly, featuring a black main body, a polished silver shaft, and a spring seat. Two small nuts are visible at the bottom, indicating included mounting hardware. This component is designed for vehicle suspension systems.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with automotive components. Improper installation or handling can lead to serious injury or vehicle damage. Adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Professional Installation Recommended: Due to the complexity and safety-critical nature of suspension components, professional installation by a certified mechanic is highly recommended.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate clothing to protect against potential hazards.
• Use Proper Tools: Ensure you have the correct tools for the job, including a reliable jack, jack stands, and spring compressors (if applicable).
• Vehicle Support: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use sturdy jack stands on a level surface.
• Spring Compression: If the strut requires spring compression, use a certified spring compressor tool and follow its instructions carefully. Compressed springs store significant energy and can cause severe injury if mishandled.
• Consult Vehicle Service Manual: Refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications relevant to your make and model.

3. Components Overview

The KYB 339084 Gas Strut typically consists of the following primary components:

• Strut Body: The main housing containing the hydraulic fluid and gas charge.
• Piston Rod: The polished shaft that extends and retracts from the strut body, connected to the vehicle's suspension.
• Spring Seat: A platform designed to support the coil spring (if applicable to the strut design).
• Mounting Brackets: Integrated points for attaching the strut to the vehicle's chassis and suspension components.
• Mounting Hardware: Includes nuts and washers for secure installation.

4. Setup (Installation)

This section provides a general guide for strut installation. Specific procedures may vary significantly by vehicle model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for precise instructions.

4.1. Pre-Installation Checks

• Verify that the KYB 339084 Gas Strut is the correct part for your vehicle's make, model, and year.
• Inspect the new strut for any signs of shipping damage.
• Ensure all necessary mounting hardware is present.

4.2. Tools and Materials Required (General)

• Vehicle jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Socket wrench set and various sockets
• Open-end wrenches
• Torque wrench
• Spring compressor (if replacing a strut assembly that requires spring transfer)
• Penetrating oil
• Wire brush
• Safety glasses and gloves

4.3. General Installation Steps

1. Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel corresponding to the strut being replaced.
2. Lift and Secure: Jack up the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Access Strut: Locate the strut assembly. You may need to remove brake lines, ABS sensor wires, or sway bar links that are attached to the strut.
4. Remove Lower Mount: Loosen and remove the bolts securing the lower part of the strut to the steering knuckle or control arm.
5. Remove Upper Mount: Access the upper strut mounts, typically located under the hood or in the trunk. Support the strut assembly, then remove the upper mounting nuts.
6. Remove Old Strut: Carefully remove the old strut assembly from the vehicle.
7. Transfer Components (if necessary): If your new KYB strut is not a complete assembly, you will need to safely transfer the coil spring, strut mount, and other components from the old strut using a spring compressor. Exercise extreme caution.
8. Install New Strut: Position the new KYB 339084 Gas Strut into place. Secure the upper mounting nuts first, then align and secure the lower mounting bolts.
9. Reattach Components: Reattach any brake lines, ABS sensor wires, or sway bar links that were disconnected.
10. Torque Specifications: Tighten all bolts and nuts to the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque settings using a torque wrench. This is critical for safety and performance.
11. Reassemble: Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to specification.
12. Post-Installation: It is highly recommended to have a professional wheel alignment performed after replacing suspension components to ensure proper vehicle handling and tire wear.

5. Operating Principles

The KYB 339084 Gas Strut is designed to control spring oscillations and maintain tire contact with the road surface. It operates on a hydraulic principle, where fluid is forced through small orifices as the piston rod moves. The gas charge (typically nitrogen) helps to prevent fluid aeration (foaming), ensuring consistent damping performance and reducing fade, especially under demanding conditions. This results in improved ride comfort, stability, and vehicle control.

6. Maintenance

KYB struts are designed for long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance. However, periodic inspection is recommended to ensure optimal vehicle safety and performance.

6.1. Inspection Points

• Visual Inspection: Regularly check the strut for signs of fluid leaks, bent or damaged piston rods, or damaged mounting points.
• Bushings and Boots: Inspect rubber bushings for cracks or deterioration and dust boots for tears, which can allow contaminants to damage the piston rod seal.
• Tire Wear: Uneven or premature tire wear can be an indicator of worn or failing struts.
• Ride Quality: Noticeable changes in ride quality, such as excessive bouncing, swaying, nose-diving during braking, or squatting during acceleration, may indicate worn struts.

6.2. Replacement Schedule

Struts are wear items and their lifespan can vary based on driving conditions, vehicle type, and mileage. While there's no universal replacement interval, it is generally recommended to have struts inspected every 50,000 miles or as part of routine vehicle maintenance. Replace struts in pairs (e.g., both front or both rear) to maintain balanced suspension performance.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your vehicle's suspension after installing or while using KYB 339084 Gas Struts, consider the following common problems and potential solutions:

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, or if you are unsure about any aspect of diagnosis or repair, it is strongly recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding the warranty coverage for your KYB SHOCKS 339084 Gas Strut, please refer to the official KYB website or contact KYB customer support directly. Warranty terms and conditions typically vary by product and region.

Official KYB Website: www.kyb.com

For technical assistance, product inquiries, or support, please visit the KYB website or contact their customer service department using the contact information provided on their official site.