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"Vague" steering

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by Bob Cowgill, Apr 7, 2006.

  1. Bob Cowgill

    Bob Cowgill New Member

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    Our '05 pkg 6 Prius has been good so far (8K miles).
    Other than the self-dimming rear view mirror working when it wants to, my main gripe is with the handling of the car.
    I can't drive it with only one hand on the wheel, as it tends to wander on the road.
    By comparison, our '03 Honda Element (EX, AWD) is a BLAST to drive, feeling MUCH more "planted".
    I have an air compressor in the garage, and am sure the tire inflation is correct.
    For those of you who have installed the BT stiffener plate: Did this mod cure this problem?
    Bob Cowgill
    Cocoa, Florida
     
    #1 Bob Cowgill, Apr 7, 2006
  2. stan

    stan New Member

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    I found that the BT plate and a set of decent tires (I am pleased with the Michilen X DT Radial) make a very significant difference. Its not a mini cooper, but it's a heck of lot better than before.
     
    #2 stan, Apr 7, 2006
  3. Begreen

    Begreen Member

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    <div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(stan @ Apr 7 2006, 08:12 AM) [snapback]236316[/snapback]</div>
    I agree, this can be improved by changing stock tires out and adding the BT plate. Stan has it right, not perfect, but much better. There is also a thread that mentions changing the toe-in alignment slightly improves handling and drift. I haven't tried that yet, but probably will soon. The thing that can't be changed is the electric steering which to me just feels dead. With no road feedback, I sometimes find myself over or under compensating.
     
    #3 Begreen, Apr 7, 2006
  4. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    a) turn the mirror upside down or add tape to the FORWARD facing sensor (i.e.the one facing the windshield). Either method should increase sensitivity

    B) If anything it should be easier because of electric power steering assist. I can't vouch for the plate since I don't have one installed.
     
    #4 Tideland Prius, Apr 7, 2006
  5. 200Volts

    200Volts Member

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    Get front and rear alignmnets.
    Get the front as close to maximum toe IN as possible. It won't hurt your mileage. If the rear is out spec have them order a shim package and realign it at no charge(I had my rear alignment set as close to zero toe-in-out as possible).
     
    #5 200Volts, Apr 7, 2006
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