I recently installed 06 cobalt ss springs on my hhr. They lowered it about an inch in the front and 1 1/2 inches in the rear. I know its probably a bad idea but I am looking for an extra 1/2 inch drop, would heating my springs kill my ride quality? If so.. how much?

 

It takes the tempering out of the steel and will kill the ride. How much cannot be answered as " ride " is so subjective. Flip a coin dude!

 

I hear that you are better off cutting rather than heating. If you heat one side more than the other it will not sit even, and you loose the temper of the steel.

 

Or maybe a couple of spring clamps. Cheap and easy.

 

Are you still running the stock 16" Tire and Wheel Combo ? If so I would consider leaving the SS Springs as is and when it comes time for a Tire or Tire and Wheel upgrade think of a Larger size as to help fill the Wheel Well!

 

I have already upgraded to 20's.. my tire size is 225-35, and yes it did fill in the gap alittle, I was just wanting to go alittle lower... without spending the money on a complete setup for only a 1/2 inch.

 

get a set of goldline springs it will drop it alot more than your pic shows with the ss springs here is a set for sale https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/deleted-threads-41/%2A%2Asold%2A%2Abrand-new-never-used-goldline-lowering-springs-20791/

 

I wouldn't heat them, thy will crack over time.

 

Looks Pretty Sweet! IMHO there probably isn't a proper and budget way of getting it that extra 1/2"! Maybe when the Tires need replacing you could go with 235's? Also if going much lower than you already are I would be concerned with it being to low (Tire Rub)! The way it sits with the 20's is probably your most practical for a Dailey Driver! Looks Pretty Sweet as Is!!!

 

cutting them is a better idea. if you heat them it will sag over time, which can be good cause you will always wish it was lower. with heat they will always be lower!