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Building the perfect Matrix

I have a 2004 Matrix (Vibe that is), and while it's a pretty nice work of engineering, there are two pieces of hardware that keep it feeling like a cheap econobox: the crappy-responding rear drum brakes and the crappy-riding torsion beam rear suspension.

But the upgrades are already out there. Rear disc brakes came with every Matrix XRS, and double-wishbone rear suspensions abound in all-wheel-drive models. My question: how much time and effort would it take to seek out these models at a junkyard and pluck the parts? Do they bolt right on? Are the conversions easy?

Reply to
CrunchyCookie
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But the upgrades are already out there. Rear disc brakes came with every Matrix XRS, and double-wishbone rear suspensions abound in all-wheel-drive models. My question: how much time and effort would it take to seek out these models at a junkyard and pluck the parts? Do they bolt right on? Are the conversions easy?

************* It will probably take a lot less time, effort, and money to go out and trade your FWD Matrix in for an AWD one that it would to convert your Matrix to a double wishbone with rear disc brakes. The rear axle may be part of the rear suspension geometry so you have to figure out a way to deal with its absence.
Reply to
Ray O

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