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Create a storage area in lithium model - styrofoam removal?

Discussion in 'Gen 4 Prius Main Forum' started by Danny Troy, Apr 23, 2016.

  1. Danny Troy

    Danny Troy Member

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    I have a 2016 Four on order, so I haven't actually had a chance to see what the deal is with the under hatch storage. I know there is Styrofoam in that compartment and was wondering if that can be removed to create a small storage area. I'm a musician and like to store some back-up equipment, just in case. It all fits nicely in my Gen 2 storage compartment. I read somewhere that the Styrofoam is used to cushion in case of a rear impact, but would forfeit that feature to get some additional storage. Any info from a present owner?
     
  2. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    I think all the 2016's have the battery under the back seat, regardless of the chemistry. The diff's are some have a spare, some have a pump-and-slime kit. Either way it's not a lot of volume, especially if there's a spare in there. Personally I wouldn't have a car without spare, but opinions vary.
     
  3. JohnF

    JohnF Active Member

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    Mendel Leisk likes this.
  4. Danny Troy

    Danny Troy Member

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    Excellent! Looks like it will be easy to store what I need to. Maybe I'll even add a compact spare.
     
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  5. alanclarkeau

    alanclarkeau Senior Member

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    I'd be surprised if the styrofoam had any structural purpose UNLESS the owner's manual warns against removing it.

    In my FORD, I removed it, installed a temporary spare & some other "useful stuff". The owner's manual made no mention of the styrofoam.
     
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  6. wjtracy

    wjtracy Senior Member

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    ...possibly the Styrofoam plays a role in road noise reduction? Usually mass is needed but also multiple layers helps on noise.