I am no sure about the purge valve pictured. I know that is not correct for 2.2 or 2.4.
You never did post the code. You might have just disturbed a connection with the work you have been doing. The kid on the counter at a big box parts store is not a reliable source of advice.

 

That looks correct, the angled part clips onto that rib.

 

Then the SS is different. Filed away.

 

Just like the ball joint’s different from the LS/LT

The only source I know for sure for the correct ball joints for the FE5 HHR SS is the complete LCA from your GM parts counter. Nobody makes aftermarket ball joints for it, not Moog, not TRW, or NAPA or anybody else, I’ve searched the Internet, spoke to my parts guys and gals, and confirmed.This statement from our sites common part number thread is accurate

Lower Control Arm - SS models ONLY (FE5 suspension)
IMPORTANT: they are only available thru GM - No after-market suppliers make a compatible part at this time, even though they may say the parts they have are for all HHR's
- GM - P/N: 25930724 - Right
- GM - P/N: 25930725 - Left
(note: Do NOT substitute a FE1 or FE3 LCA - the ball joint stub on them is 20MM and is not compatible with the spindle on a FE5/SS which is 20.5MM)

 

It's been talked about, but I guess no one has tried them yet.



https://www.overthetopperformance.co...LNF_p_295.html

 

Yes, I haven’t seen anyone here post about actually installing them in their SS.

 

They explicitly state that the shank diameter is 20.5 mm. Pretty good bet it’s the real deal.

 

OK I've never done those before. Can you tell me where they are located and how to check if they are good?

Should I be a Ginnie pig and try those out to see if they fit??

I'm late on this but it does appear to have the same connector style as the intake cylinder thing (it's on the plastic air filter intake going to the valve cover I believe) I have not taken it apart yet but I assume it would press-on and the right angle part would snap in.

I agree but he was just telling me what the code reader told him.

Sorry, here is the paper they gave me.

I notice it blows a decent cloud if dark grey smoke when I let off the gas sometimes. Put 2 half tanks of arco 91 in it so far so I don't think it would be the fuel at this point, unless the fuel filter is dirty with it??

it's running really good other than a low idle that dims the lights and acts like its going to stall out, which is fixed by giving it some gas. Could this be injector related? Its odd that it only happens after I've been driving a while.

 

Also can I just ground the purple wire at the hood release to enable remote start? Or does it need to be at the interior fuse box location? (It has remote start in the DIC)

 

Activate the RS and use the fob to use the RS , directions are in your owners manual.
the smoke problem could be valve guides, valve guide seals, piston rings , EVAP purge valve.
install the new one and test drive it again.