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Suspension Modification with Hymotion?

Discussion in 'Prius PHEV Plug-In Modifications' started by CurbsidePlug-in, May 6, 2009.

  1. CurbsidePlug-in

    CurbsidePlug-in New Member

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    I'm getting the Hymotion installed on Friday on our 2009 Prius. Do I need any modifications to the rear suspension to help with the added weight. I know there have been some postings on this in the past, but I haven't seen any recent updates and/or recommendations. Thanks for your thoughts!
     
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  2. boxer93

    boxer93 Psyched for PHEV

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    Curbside,
    Nice to see a new Hymotion install. I would say yes. I do not have the upgrade but I am looking into it. Green car Co has quoted me. I'm waiting in Luscious Garage to see if they will sell me their version. It definitly rides lower without the upgrade, does not affect mileage though :) I know of a couple that have made the upgrade, I saw one at the Green Grand Prix last weekend. Looks very stock in the rear.
    Chris
     
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  3. Arthur

    Arthur Member

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    Hi Chris,

    It was good meeting you at the Green Grand Prix.

    My reason for doing the suspension upgrade had nothing to do with improving my mileage. However, the "angle of attack" (I'm not sure if this term really applies here) of your car does affect mileage slightly. That angle is decreased if the back of your car is riding low.

    Arthur
     
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  4. CurbsidePlug-in

    CurbsidePlug-in New Member

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    If I wanted the upgrade you both are discussing, what would I ask my local Toyota dealer to install? What would I be asking for, specifically? Thanks!
     
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  5. Arthur

    Arthur Member

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    I purchased (by mail) a set of shocks and springs from The Green Car Company, in Seattle: http://store.greencarclinic.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=SUSPENSION

    Then, I just asked my local Toyota dealer to install them.

    It was expensive, but I'm very happy with the results.

    Arthur
     
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  6. mrbigh

    mrbigh Prius Absolutum Dominium

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    That is an excessive price .....not to be confused with robbery.
     
  7. boxer93

    boxer93 Psyched for PHEV

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    Arthur,
    It was nice to meet you and your wife as well. I contacted Green Car Co and Luscious Garage. I bought the springs only from Luscious Garage, GCC deal includes KYB Struts. I feel my stock struts will be fine, especially with only 6k on them. The cost was also a third of GCC.
    I am going to the Toyota garage to see what they will charge to install the springs. If too much, in my mind, I will have my local mechanic do it.
    Chris
     
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  8. Arthur

    Arthur Member

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    It was nice meeting you, too, Chris.

    It sounds like you're taking a much more sensible approach to the whole suspension thing. I know that I paid extra for convenience and piece of mind. My life's a little busy right now, and I just wanted to get it done.

    I hope your solution works out as well as mine has.

    Arthur
     
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  9. randreed

    randreed Same as it ever was . . .

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  10. HalBurke

    HalBurke Junior Member

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    I had foreigh affairs install new KYB shocks, along with the Hymotion install. I was not sure so i went and had it done. I can't tell the difference in driving.

    Best

    Hal