Vf48 or Vf52 swap for 08 WRX???? - Page 2

cianuro · 05-18-2010, 07:27 PM

I've been researching on this vf52 swap, but there's something I don't quite understand...

Looking through sites that sell the vf52, I read different things. One says that the IHI VF52 Turbo is factory issue, another says that it is the one installed in the '09 WRX but you can upgrade your '09 with it (yes, I wrote it right), and another one says that it has the same specs as the one the '09s come equipped with...

So... Which one is it?

I know I'll be heading to my dealer for service some time this month, so I guess I'll ask a vendor, or a shop guy. Maybe I can have a look and compare...

Does anybody know if a 2009 ECU fits an '08? I guess it would be easier (and cheaper) to start with a Cobb AP. It's just that when reading on this swap, I always find the '08-'09 comparisons, and power wise, all the difference I see is the turbo being bigger and running at 2psi more than the '08.

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synolimit · 05-18-2010, 08:00 PM

^^^all of them. it is factory issue, on the 09's. whatever you wrote on the second one, it is the 09 turbo again. and last it is the 09 wrx turbo so of course it has the same specs.

why would you want to know about the ECU? you need to tune with anything you do so it doesnt matter even though its the same ECU with a different map of course since the 08 doesnt push as much power as the 09. (the cheapest) thing to start with is an open source tune. $350 around here. i dont think you can find an AP used for that price, and it will yield a lot more power then a OTS map. your right, all the differences you see are just the bigger turbo which will get you more power. the TD04 running at 20psi or any matched psi wont put out the same power as the VF52 at 20psi or any matched psi.

twentyclowns · 05-18-2010, 11:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by synolimit

^^^all of them. it is factory issue, on the 09's. whatever you wrote on the second one, it is the 09 turbo again. and last it is the 09 wrx turbo so of course it has the same specs.

why would you want to know about the ECU? you need to tune with anything you do so it doesnt matter even though its the same ECU with a different map of course since the 08 doesnt push as much power as the 09. (the cheapest) thing to start with is an open source tune. $350 around here. i dont think you can find an AP used for that price, and it will yield a lot more power then a OTS map. your right, all the differences you see are just the bigger turbo which will get you more power. the TD04 running at 20psi or any matched psi wont put out the same power as the VF52 at 20psi or any matched psi.

the 09 ecu is different then the 08, ive already thought about it. i was going to get a vf52 and flash the 09 map but its not possible. the ecus are different

synolimit · 05-19-2010, 12:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twentyclowns

the 09 ecu is different then the 08, ive already thought about it. i was going to get a vf52 and flash the 09 map but its not possible. the ecus are different

your saying the AP plugged in doesnt recognize the ECU? that doesnt make it different, just make Cobb have a lock on everyone. get a Tactix cable and flash an 09 stage 2 map using rom raider or something. or im sure someone has made a map for an 08 with a vf52 swap with stage 2 mods.

Gieleuh · 05-19-2010, 04:26 AM

I'm looking for an VF52 also.. Will he 08+ Sti intercooler fit easely?

iceberg2532 · 05-19-2010, 05:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gieleuh

I'm looking for an VF52 also.. Will he 08+ Sti intercooler fit easely?

The vf52 bolts up to your stock intercooler, so you would not be able to use an 08+ sti intercooler. However you could buy a different turbo like the vf48 and use an sti intercooler, but you will also need a new intake manifold as well

not2fast · 11-22-2010, 08:39 AM

So I pretty much did this research too...
And I was thinking that I will do the full swap, but..
Since a turbo swap is such a PITA to do (even though for the DP you pretty much have to get in there anyway) and more expensive than just getting a better TMIC.
Will power gains with TD04 and a great TMIC be almost par with the gains of a VF52 with stock TMIC? (Assuming all the rest are done- AP, DP, Exhaust, intake)
I do realize that it will minimize future upgrades that the VF52 would allow, but still, I would consider doing that if it made sense.

Not trying to hijack the thread..thinking the OP and me on the same boat.

phoenix14 · 11-22-2010, 10:32 AM

Just looking at the dyno charts that Perrin has on their site tells you that the VF52 definately is a worthwhile upgrade. They show dyno charts for the 08 and the 09 to compare. IMO the 40hp that the VF52 adds over the TD04 is really worth it for something that just needs to be bolted in with no other major mods.

Clearly the stock TMIC is enough for the VF52 since the 09+ still uses the exact same TMIC.

Just as everyone else is saying if you do the upgrade make sure that you have a tune done or maybe even talk to Perrin and see if they have a map that works with the VF52 on an 08 utilizing the AP.

I also have an 08 WRX sedan and have been really looking into this. I plan on making a video of complete install of the VF52 with TBE and Perrin TMIC this winter. Maybe it will help clear up some confusion.

not2fast · 11-22-2010, 12:34 PM

Thanks for the response and the references .
And yes, a video would be very much appreciated.

VF52 it is then!

424wrx · 11-22-2010, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by phoenix14

Just looking at the dyno charts that Perrin has on their site tells you that the VF52 definately is a worthwhile upgrade. They show dyno charts for the 08 and the 09 to compare. IMO the 40hp that the VF52 adds over the TD04 is really worth it for something that just needs to be bolted in with no other major mods.

Clearly the stock TMIC is enough for the VF52 since the 09+ still uses the exact same TMIC.

Just as everyone else is saying if you do the upgrade make sure that you have a tune done or maybe even talk to Perrin and see if they have a map that works with the VF52 on an 08 utilizing the AP.

I also have an 08 WRX sedan and have been really looking into this. I plan on making a video of complete install of the VF52 with TBE and Perrin TMIC this winter. Maybe it will help clear up some confusion.

i have a vf52 in the mail right now for my 08 wrx. i bought this map. the guy makes amazing tunes. check out 3gwrx.com for info about him. 2008 WRX Stage 2.52

waspdawg02 · 07-19-2012, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scramjett

Transmissions are the same..................... everything is the same under the hood but for the turbocharger. VF52 = VF48 but flanged for the restrictive, puny, worthless stock TMIC.

Buy a TXS FMIC and no modding needed to run either a "sti" or "lgt" style turbo................................ kit has been out for over a year now................ research research research........................

So if the 48 and 52 have the minimal differences in just the flange to fit the stock TMIC, and i plan on replacing the stock IC anyway, would i be better off with the STI's 48 or the Legacy's 52?

Thanks for the clarification

kaczmarz · 07-19-2012, 04:54 PM

I've got Blouch 380XT (18G with a flange) on '08 WRX, 8cm, with very conservative and, of course, safe tune. That's the biggest turbo u can have on stock engine, transmission, and clutch.

Unlike with VF52, you would need bigger injectors with this turbo, however. But at least you're not running 97% IDC and risking getting lean.

nappingcub · 07-19-2012, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waspdawg02

So if the 48 and 52 have the minimal differences in just the flange to fit the stock TMIC, and i plan on replacing the stock IC anyway, would i be better off with the STI's 48 or the Legacy's 52?

Thanks for the clarification

IIRC a vf48 will not fit onto a 08+ WRX. You will have to go with a vf52 unless you're going to be changing the intake manifold, intercooler and possibly other parts as well.

'08WRXRider · 08-09-2012, 04:00 AM

Looking at doing the upgrade to IHI VF52 from '10 WRX. Just want to make sure I do it right the 1st time. I think you've said before but, are any injector/fuel system upgrades necessary? Recommended? Seems 1 guy said IDCs are @ 97%! Is that true on '08 WRX with VF52? Are injectors the same on '08 as on '09 WRXs? If not, what are the differences, specifically? Sorry about all the questions.

Thanks guys.

424wrx · 08-09-2012, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by '08WRXRider

Looking at doing the upgrade to IHI VF52 from '10 WRX. Just want to make sure I do it right the 1st time. I think you've said before but, are any injector/fuel system upgrades necessary? Recommended? Seems 1 guy said IDCs are @ 97%! Is that true on '08 WRX with VF52? Are injectors the same on '08 as on '09 WRXs? If not, what are the differences, specifically? Sorry about all the questions.

Thanks guys.

injectors and fuel pump are the same from 08-12 wrx. no need to upgrade. the turbo bolts right in. im running a vf52 with a tp stage 3.52 map for about 2 years. no issues. make sure the vf52 t connector and pill gets swapped over.any more questions, pm me.

slonez · 08-11-2012, 08:16 AM

I can get a good deal on a used VF52 for my LGT 5EAT, is it a better choice than a 16G?
Already have upgraded fuel pump & injectors.
What are the pros & cons?

wrxlaunch · 08-11-2012, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by slonez

I can get a good deal on a used VF52 for my LGT 5EAT, is it a better choice than a 16G?
Already have upgraded fuel pump & injectors.
What are the pros & cons?

Someone needs to do some more reading... Jus saying

SeRious10 · 08-11-2012, 04:51 PM

I am getting ready to post mine for sell in the For Sale section. It has 15000 miles on it. Came off my 2010 WRX. I upgraded to a larger turbo.

424wrx · 08-11-2012, 06:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SeRious10

I am getting ready to post mine for sell in the For Sale section. It has 15000 miles on it. Came off my 2010 WRX. I upgraded to a larger turbo.

a member is looking for a vf52 on 3gwrx too. he posted in the want to buy section.

No Preservatives · 02-08-2016, 07:49 AM

I have a almost new vf52 listed on eBay if you'd be interested message me at [email protected]

mike12smith · 02-27-2016, 10:27 PM

Just did the 52 swap on my 2008 and it's amazing.

424wrx · 02-28-2016, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike12smith

Just did the 52 swap on my 2008 and it's amazing.

its a nice bump in power. i installed a new vf52 about 5 years ago in my 08.still running excellent.

ppai5716 · 08-25-2016, 04:33 PM

Any chance you did the swap and have the td04 laying around?

point78 · 08-26-2016, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ppai5716

Any chance you did the swap and have the td04 laying around?

I took my td04 off at about 30k miles, it's been sitting in a box since then...

JaQuan15 · 08-26-2016, 07:34 AM

So ironic I was at a meet last night and my boy suggested I do the same thing .. So driving to work and I said next year I'll do the swap .

02-08-2016, 07:49 AM	#45
No Preservatives Scooby Newbie Member#: 439986 Join Date: Feb 2016	I have a almost new vf52 I have a almost new vf52 listed on eBay if you'd be interested message me at [email protected]

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05-18-2010, 07:27 PM	#26
cianuro Scooby Specialist Member#: 235475 Join Date: Jan 2010 Chapter/Region: PRSIC Location: Puerto Rico Vehicle: 2008 WRX Silver	I've been researching on this vf52 swap, but there's something I don't quite understand... Looking through sites that sell the vf52, I read different things. One says that the IHI VF52 Turbo is factory issue, another says that it is the one installed in the '09 WRX but you can upgrade your '09 with it (yes, I wrote it right), and another one says that it has the same specs as the one the '09s come equipped with... So... Which one is it? I know I'll be heading to my dealer for service some time this month, so I guess I'll ask a vendor, or a shop guy. Maybe I can have a look and compare... Does anybody know if a 2009 ECU fits an '08? I guess it would be easier (and cheaper) to start with a Cobb AP. It's just that when reading on this swap, I always find the '08-'09 comparisons, and power wise, all the difference I see is the turbo being bigger and running at 2psi more than the '08. * Registered users of the site do not see these ads.

05-18-2010, 08:00 PM	#27
synolimit Scooby Specialist Member#: 225225 Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: medina, oh Vehicle: 11 WRX 335HP, 394TQ, 93 VF52!!	^^^all of them. it is factory issue, on the 09's. whatever you wrote on the second one, it is the 09 turbo again. and last it is the 09 wrx turbo so of course it has the same specs. why would you want to know about the ECU? you need to tune with anything you do so it doesnt matter even though its the same ECU with a different map of course since the 08 doesnt push as much power as the 09. (the cheapest) thing to start with is an open source tune. $350 around here. i dont think you can find an AP used for that price, and it will yield a lot more power then a OTS map. your right, all the differences you see are just the bigger turbo which will get you more power. the TD04 running at 20psi or any matched psi wont put out the same power as the VF52 at 20psi or any matched psi.

05-19-2010, 04:26 AM	#30
Gieleuh Scooby Newbie Member#: 241523 Join Date: Mar 2010	I'm looking for an VF52 also.. Will he 08+ Sti intercooler fit easely?

11-22-2010, 08:39 AM	#32
not2fast Scooby Newbie Member#: 230574 Join Date: Nov 2009 Chapter/Region: Tri-State Location: Villanova, PA Vehicle: 2015 MB C300 Black	So I pretty much did this research too... And I was thinking that I will do the full swap, but.. Since a turbo swap is such a PITA to do (even though for the DP you pretty much have to get in there anyway) and more expensive than just getting a better TMIC. Will power gains with TD04 and a great TMIC be almost par with the gains of a VF52 with stock TMIC? (Assuming all the rest are done- AP, DP, Exhaust, intake) I do realize that it will minimize future upgrades that the VF52 would allow, but still, I would consider doing that if it made sense. Not trying to hijack the thread..thinking the OP and me on the same boat.

11-22-2010, 10:32 AM	#33
phoenix14 Scooby Newbie Member#: 263656 Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: New Phila, Ohio Vehicle: 2008 WRX Sedan	Just looking at the dyno charts that Perrin has on their site tells you that the VF52 definately is a worthwhile upgrade. They show dyno charts for the 08 and the 09 to compare. IMO the 40hp that the VF52 adds over the TD04 is really worth it for something that just needs to be bolted in with no other major mods. Clearly the stock TMIC is enough for the VF52 since the 09+ still uses the exact same TMIC. Just as everyone else is saying if you do the upgrade make sure that you have a tune done or maybe even talk to Perrin and see if they have a map that works with the VF52 on an 08 utilizing the AP. I also have an 08 WRX sedan and have been really looking into this. I plan on making a video of complete install of the VF52 with TBE and Perrin TMIC this winter. Maybe it will help clear up some confusion.

11-22-2010, 12:34 PM	#34
not2fast Scooby Newbie Member#: 230574 Join Date: Nov 2009 Chapter/Region: Tri-State Location: Villanova, PA Vehicle: 2015 MB C300 Black	Thanks for the response and the references . And yes, a video would be very much appreciated. VF52 it is then!

07-19-2012, 04:54 PM	#37
kaczmarz Scooby Newbie Member#: 307624 Join Date: Jan 2012 Chapter/Region: MWSOC Location: Des Plaines, IL. Vehicle: 2008 WRX Hatch 325/347, 380XT, 8 cm2	I've got Blouch 380XT (18G with a flange) on '08 WRX, 8cm, with very conservative and, of course, safe tune. That's the biggest turbo u can have on stock engine, transmission, and clutch. Unlike with VF52, you would need bigger injectors with this turbo, however. But at least you're not running 97% IDC and risking getting lean.

08-09-2012, 04:00 AM	#39
'08WRXRider Scooby Newbie Member#: 276361 Join Date: Mar 2011	Looking at doing the upgrade to IHI VF52 from '10 WRX. Just want to make sure I do it right the 1st time. I think you've said before but, are any injector/fuel system upgrades necessary? Recommended? Seems 1 guy said IDCs are @ 97%! Is that true on '08 WRX with VF52? Are injectors the same on '08 as on '09 WRXs? If not, what are the differences, specifically? Sorry about all the questions. Thanks guys.

08-11-2012, 08:16 AM	#41
slonez Scooby Newbie Member#: 250918 Join Date: Jul 2010 Chapter/Region: TXIC	I can get a good deal on a used VF52 for my LGT 5EAT, is it a better choice than a 16G? Already have upgraded fuel pump & injectors. What are the pros & cons?

08-11-2012, 04:51 PM	#43
SeRious10 Scooby Newbie Member#: 229792 Join Date: Nov 2009 Chapter/Region: TXIC Location: Ft Worth, TX Vehicle: 2010 WRX WR Blue	I am getting ready to post mine for sell in the For Sale section. It has 15000 miles on it. Came off my 2010 WRX. I upgraded to a larger turbo.

02-27-2016, 10:27 PM	#46
mike12smith Scooby Newbie Member#: 430990 Join Date: Sep 2015 Location: New Bern, NC Vehicle: 2008 wrx sedan black	Just did the 52 swap on my 2008 and it's amazing.

08-25-2016, 04:33 PM	#48
ppai5716 Scooby Newbie Member#: 341375 Join Date: Dec 2012 Vehicle: 2008 Impreza WRX WR Blue Pearl	Any chance you did the swap and have the td04 laying around?

08-26-2016, 07:34 AM	#50
JaQuan15 Scooby Newbie Member#: 436181 Join Date: Dec 2015 Chapter/Region: NESIC Location: Connecticut Vehicle: 2014 WRX Hatchback Dark Gray Metallic	So ironic I was at a meet last night and my boy suggested I do the same thing .. So driving to work and I said next year I'll do the swap .