What would it take to install the HHR SS High-performance, Nürburgring-tuned suspension on a non SS HHR? Could I just purchase the HHR SS springs, shocks, and sway bars and install them on my 06 HHR LS and have a SS High-performance, Nürburgring-tuned suspension?

 

I'm not sure if that's all it would take, but it sure couldn't hurt to install those items.

 

I could be wrong because I haven't even seen a SS up close yet but I can't see why not. I used to have a Mach 1 suspension on a V6 Mustang. I don't think Chevy would change the mounting points or anything like that on the SS model.

 

I read somewhere that the front suspension knuckles are exclusive to the SS. Different geometry? I think once the dealers are set up with parts manuals for the SS, some time comparing standard & SS part #s would yield the required info.

 

I think I will have to crawl under a HHR SS at the autoshow and see what I can see. I will try and take some picture as well.

 

I'd like to see a picture of the SS at an autoshow with "thedonn007" crawling underneath

ok...seriously...I too read somewhere that the SS has exclusinve spindles(knuckles, hubs, whatever you want to call them) which means either the lower strut mounting point is different, or only the spindles are...then again, just because the spindle is different, doesnt mean the strut itself wont fit a non SS model.

Like mentioned above, often times one of the greatest features of a "sport' (or in this case Super Sport) model hitting the market is the availability of the parts for said model being available for base or non-sport models. This increases the parts train for the owners who dont have the Sport model. Had Chevy introdued a "Sport" suspencion package as a stand-alone parts group without a specific model to back it up, not many people would order the dealer's performance parts for their car when such aftermarket companies out there would probably blow their prices out of the water. Eibach, Tokico, KYB, etc...But having a SS on the road as a Model Car, then making the upgraded parts available to the public for their non SS models would be a great marketing tool for GM.

Mustang GT's...a prime example. Many Cobra parts bolt right on to the Mustang GT...therefore, you can have the cheaper car, with some of the upgraded parts without having to buy the whole upgraded car.

if the SS's tuned suspension fits non-SS HHR's...people will upgrade, providing the price is worth the payoff.

 

true, i am already looking to upgrade the shocks / springs at some point

 

I think you should just buy an SS...I had an Lt and just traded it in on an SS.... The SS is an amazing vehicle and if your planning on taking the parts from the SS and put them on the LS it wont be the same vehicle...I really recommend the SS to anyone its so cool....

 

I am just waiting for the SS Panel.

Later,Dave

 

You have left out the specific closer ratio steering rack, specific front wheel knuckles, stiffer control arm and stabilizer bar bushings, smaller diameter steering wheel, StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, rear disc brakes, and the 18" wheels with Michelin Sport Pilot tires.
There are alot of parts that come together to get that "SS Nürburgring-tuned suspension".
You can get probably 60% from the parts you mentioned, but seriously, alot of the feel is going to come from the steering ratio, bushings, and tires.