I have a 2011 2LT, 2.4L, automatic, FE3 suspension. I want to level out the rear (not an all around drop), but after a couple hours searching here I haven't been able to come to a decision.

I measured the gaps from the top of the rims straight up to the fender edge: front 6 3/16", rear 7 13/16", which means to perfectly level out I would need to drop 1 5/8" in the rear, or at least as close as possible.

I won't mind if the ride gets a little stiffer, but don't want it softer.

I probably won't do this until spring. I also have a full set of mud flaps (GM part 12499528) and I don't want the flaps to scrape on speed bumps. They won't be installed until I get them painted along with my replacement trim (grille, door handles, beauty bar).

So should I go Gold Line, Cobalt SS/SC, Cobalt SS/TC, Eibach, Pedder, or something else? I've seen the posts about the Gold Lines making noise by binding/bottoming out, and it seems like a crap shoot whether or not that happens.

 

I haven't done this mod myself, but it seems a lot of people go to the cobalt SS springs...I'm pretty sure S/C and T/C are the same ride height. but someone else can probably help out there

 

If I remember correctly, the SS/SC springs are lower, but softer than... some stock HHR suspension, I don't think that other post specified which. But that's why I noted that I have the FE3.

 

Don't know if this helps but the picture below is my SS with the Pedders in the rear only. Front's are the stock FE5's.
It dropped the rear about 1 1/2".

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by shroogis
I don't believe they have SS/SC or SS/TC specific Cobalt springs...maybe I am wrong?

Yes they both have different part #'s

& the SS/SC springs are softer & lower more,.

the SS/TC springs are stronger & can haul more & lower a bit less..

***** Go with the SS/TC, no a$$ drag when you get on it.

Yo Yo Yo, there ya go.

 

The Eibach pros say they drop the rear about that same amount you are looking for in the rear and 1" in front. The HHR sports say 1" front and 1.2" rear.

 

Did you drop the front after this pic? Or did you leave it this way. It looks level when looking at the running boards but that front gap is bigger then the rear which looks odd.

 

Yep. Dropped the front the next week. Here's the picture with the Pedders all around.

 

According to the other threads, the SS/TC springs drop 1 1/8" or 1 1/4".

This is helping, but I'm still not decided yet.

 

I've been running the SS/TC rear springs for years now.. The drop is 1-1/4"
(after settling).. Very Pleased. & I have FE3 also, these were a good match.

The SS/SC drop 1-1/2" but are SOFT.