Subaru Modification: First Level Modifications

[smurfwrx]

Dude, this cat is a pro! Very helpful man! FELLOW NOOBS: I can't even tell you how much I've learned from this guy's posts already. READ!!! Whatever you THINK you want to do, wait until you've read because more than likely, you'll change your mind even if just a little bit and be thankful in the end.

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[subywrxtuner6969]

WOW!! You did it again. Props to UNA!!

[skatedees]

I probably would have started a new thread asking all those questions if I hadn't of read this. Thank you for the time saver.

[07HaWkEyE]

i have an 07 wrx and was wondering if i were to replace the stock DP with a catless or hi-flow catted DP without EM would i be asking for trouble? or because this is my only power mod would reseting the ECU be sufficient?
-ed

[Sean415]

Epic!

[Thormix]

Originally Posted by 07HaWkEyE

i have an 07 wrx and was wondering if i were to replace the stock DP with a catless or hi-flow catted DP without EM would i be asking for trouble? or because this is my only power mod would reseting the ECU be sufficient?
-ed

Most modd'ers will tell you that a Hi Flow Catted DP still needs engine management to run correctly. Plus why add a expensive hi flow DP if you not going to tune the stock ECU to ~Stage 2 and take full advantage of the added part.

There are inexpensive pretuned maps available, just do some searching and you will find all the answers you need.

[sconniescoob]

Originally Posted by Thormix

Most modd'ers will tell you that a Hi Flow why add a expensive hi flow DP if you not going to tune the stock ECU to ~Stage 2 and take full advantage of the added part.

There are inexpensive pretuned maps available, just do some searching and you will find all the answers you need.

Well I suspect that the issue is that are inexpensive DP's available (read: under $200, non-catted), that, power-wise, are damn near close to more expensive DP's, catted or non. If you add in EM and a protune (and maybe a CBE too), you're seriously adding to that $200. Is it worth it to you? Well maybe, and probably given your post. However, to reiterate, is it asking for trouble to add a DP w/o a tune?

[Thormix]

Originally Posted by sconniescoob

However, to reiterate, is it asking for trouble to add a DP w/o a tune?

Yes, IMHO this is a situation that warrants EM! The condition this new DP will create is an A/F ratio that is not where it should be. Similar to adding a aftermarket intake and the aftermarket DP has the potential to skew you air to fuel readings making your engine run lean or rich respectively.

If you are going to change parts that let your flat four breath (either inhale or exhale) you need to adjust the ECU to accommodate for them. If you don't, I would say you are asking for engine issues and asking for trouble.

/two cents

[sconniescoob]

good to know, thanks.

[Hellowinter]

I just bought my first subaru this last weekend. 02 WRB Wagon. I have been supremely confused about what to do and what effects it would have. Thanks a ton for some great info. I plan to follow your suggestions to a t with an added swaybar in there somewhere for autocross.
Thanks again

[JRock]

I've been looking around the forums (Newbies & FAQs, General, and 2.5L Turbo Powertrain) and there seems to be a lot of focus on "what mods will get me xxx horsepower" but not a lot on "what are all the basic/essential mods to do that aren't going to over-stress a stock block, i don't care what the total hp ends up being so much as i care that my block stays together and my car runs healthy".

Just curious if there's a list compiled anywhere for those who are interested to know what's considered "safe" (for someone who's not interested in over-stressing the engine components) or mods that even improve the health of the '08-'09 STi engine.

For example, getting an AccessPORT and running a Stage 1 tune.
Or perhaps even adding a TBE and Stage 2 tune.
Or adding a FMIC.

But can those be done without over-stressing the injectors or fuel pump? Or are you then looking at replacing those items as well?

Yes, in all of this we are assuming proper installation, properly functioning parts, and a healthy engine to begin with.

[howweirdo]

if one of the best starting power mods is replacing the intercooler hose, where would i start to look for one? i haven't seen any around for my car but that might because my car is still new... help anyone?

[bjwk89]

I know nothing about the 08's but a popular brand of hoses is samco, shoot them an email and ask if they have any out and if so where to buy them.

[ctrent86]

Very well done

[emsmap]

This is such a nice writeup for all beginners. I will point this post to all new subaru owners I meet

[Wylde Horses]

Originally Posted by JRock

I've been looking around the forums (Newbies & FAQs, General, and 2.5L Turbo Powertrain) and there seems to be a lot of focus on "what mods will get me xxx horsepower" but not a lot on "what are all the basic/essential mods to do that aren't going to over-stress a stock block, i don't care what the total hp ends up being so much as i care that my block stays together and my car runs healthy".

Just curious if there's a list compiled anywhere for those who are interested to know what's considered "safe" (for someone who's not interested in over-stressing the engine components) or mods that even improve the health of the '08-'09 STi engine.

For example, getting an AccessPORT and running a Stage 1 tune.
Or perhaps even adding a TBE and Stage 2 tune.
Or adding a FMIC.

But can those be done without over-stressing the injectors or fuel pump? Or are you then looking at replacing those items as well?

Yes, in all of this we are assuming proper installation, properly functioning parts, and a healthy engine to begin with.

I haven't heard of anyone having any problems with the things you've mentioned. With lower intake temps, a FMIC will increase the engine's longevity, though many people tune for it, advancing timing, etc, so in many cases it's probably a wash. Your best bet would be to figure out what you want to do in terms of modding, then put it together and have it professionally tuned. That way you can work with the tuner to get a tune that will moderatly increase performance while keeping your engine well out of harms way.

[wawawrx]

on a budget of $2000, can this be accomplished?

[noobsauce]

Great info! I'm gonna start looking into replacing stock TMIC

[ammo0000]

Originally Posted by wawawrx

on a budget of $2000, can this be accomplished?

Absolutely. Reread the part about buying used then head to the 'For Sale' section. There's plenty of used parts for sale. Just noticed you have an '08. Parts are probably a bit more scarce than previous models, but just don't get impatient and keep an eye in that forum.

[wawawrx]

^^ trust me im checking classifieds, but i dont even expect anything to show up for an 08' let alone the sedan. gr. lol

[noobsauce]

Originally Posted by wawawrx

on a budget of $2000, can this be accomplished?

Can what be accomplished?

[wawawrx]

Originally Posted by noobsauce

Can what be accomplished?

basically how many parts can i get above and which ones for maximal gains

[noobsauce]

Originally Posted by wawawrx

basically how many parts can i get above and which ones for maximal gains

Ahh... You and I are sorta in the same boat . I been reading a lot and so far it seems I can get a stage 2 setup with a custom tune for my STI for a little over 2.2k. Only difference is that I would be getting all parts brand new.

[wawawrx]

i'd rather buy new unless its something that doesnt really matter i.e. DP/UP is going to be under a car at some point, doesnt make a diff if i get it new used. exhaust doesnt really matter to me either... starting to contemplate a custom set-up, but im afraid its not going to turn out the way i want

[noobsauce]

Originally Posted by wawawrx

basically how many parts can i get above and which ones for maximal gains

I'm no expert but I would say maybe it's better to think of how much whp you want your car to be at, and research how you can get there. I'm looking for my car to be at around 300whp. So far it seems a stage 2 can pretty much get me there.