I've never started a thread here before but I thought this merited one.


Within the next year I'd like to put an aftermarket exhaust on my '00 Forester S. At this point I don't know if I want to go with just a muffler or a catback. From reading i-club postings, other newsgroups and websites this is what I've been able to gather:


1. Forester's exhaust is slightly different than the Impreza's, so systems designed for Imprezas won't necessarily fit Foresters.


2. 2.5" systems can cause a loss of low-end torque, since there's less backpressure. For non-turbo cars it's better to go with a 2.25" system.


3. Stromung makes a muffler for Foresters, but Stromungs "rust before your eyes" unless they're made of stainless. Stainless Stromungs are available for Imprezas, but not sure if for Foresters.


4. Impreza folks seem to like the STi or Scoobysport (UK) systems, but the latter is pretty expensive. Don't know if available for Foresters.


What I'm looking for out of an exhaust system is some small power gain and a slightly louder, mellow but not too raspy tone. As other folks have posted, I don't want the "*******" or full WRC effect - don't want any backfiring or anything to unduly draw the attention of law enforcement officials. Still I'd like to know what I've got back there and 3-5 hp at the wheels wouldn't hurt. So I open the floor: has anyone installed an aftermarket exhaust on their Forester? If so, which and what has your experience been?


Thanks in advance,
Ed

edit: Sorry for using the asterisked word - guess that's a monitored issue. The term rhymes with "lice toy." Mea culpa, mea maxima culpa.

[This message has been edited by lark6 (edited January 31, 2001).]

Tried one from JC Sports-way too loud and drooney for me. The box effect may cause some of the problem. Bought a used Brospeed and will be moding it to fit (I hope) within the month> Will let you know how/if it works out. I have a JC air intake and want to complete the air in-air out formula. I do have some concerns about a lean condition at WOT even though I'm not there a lot. Lean is not good and I don't want to start messing with fuel mods.

Drop Shawn Gilson from Challenger Deep a line, I know he carries forester parts, and he might have a solution for you. I think that Syms makes an exaust system for the forester but its probably very expensive, much like all other Syms products.

Riot

Another option is a custom-made exhaust. It may actually cost you less - maybe $200-300.

Just tell them you want 2.25" piping and a free flow muffler, both stainless.

The catch is the sound won't be tuned as some aftermarket systems are.

-juice

PS What's up, Jeff. Hadn't heard from you in a while

I would recomend against any custom stainless, as I would doubt any exaust shop could weld it properly. I'd get just get a normal steel exaust made, and it will last several years. Tehn with the money you save you can replace it once and still have a cheaper outcome than a stainless system, which will not last as long as 2 normal systems.

I had the Stromung on my Forester too loud!
I took it off. MRT will be coming out with one soon. If we can get some interest I can get them over here faster.
Pam

Tell me more, Pam. I might be interested.

Thanks,
Ed