Hi I am looking at getting a strut tower bar (STB) to help with handling on the freeway, especially in windy conditions. I have read that the Cusco seems better than the Tanabe in that it allows access to the fuse box and seems to be a better fit. Can someone here point me to where I can order one and what the correct part numbers are etc. I have a 2012 Gen 3. Thanks
I have the CUSCO. It really helps to stabilize the front end. I'd forget the Tanabe as it blocks access to the fuse box.
Thanks for the info. Can you tell me where you ordered yours. Some places I looked don't seem to be in business or the part images don't look correct. Thanks
I got mine from Juicedhybrid.com years, ago. They are now out of business. The images mean nothing. I recommend this vendor. I've ordered multiple items from them. Cusco Strut Bars Strut Bar, F-OS ZVW30, ZVW40 & 41, PRIUS, ,USDM model | 951 540 ALHD They have always delivered. Good luck,
If you want to save a tone of money and have access to a machine shop or even just the right hand tools and drill press you can get the specs of someone who already has one and buy some nice thick aluminum of steal and build your own. It's always confounded me that people will spend many hundreds of dollars for a big chunk of inexspensive metal that you can shape and size in a machine shop in less than an hour. PS: There's lots of other locations you can strengthen underneath the car too...
Contact Hybridpit in Buena Park. They carry all JDM Brands for the Prius. Great prices as well. They have a website you can order from to.
In our cars, the biggest assist in body roll is to install a rear sway bar. Dont get me wrong, the front one will help but you will see a bigger impact if you install the rear sway bar. These cars do not come with one but do have a front lower installed already. So tighten up the rear and you will instantly be happier.
I just installed one I got from CARiD (I tried to add a direct link to the item, but got an error when saving the post) - correct LHD version, $180. The only issue was no instructions in English, but I've attached a version another member posted a while ago (which I only found after I installed it .) It was easy to install, with a little patience, and these instructions have great photos. The next step is installing the TRD rear sway bar I just received and I'm contemplating the TRD lowering spring set, but need to find out more about how it affects the ride comfort.
