Mikeys Forester STi build journal [Archive] - TriStateTuners.com

Ej6Mike

11-21-2010, 04:01 PM

Up to Date as of 8\24\11 (pre-swap)

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6059645916_d04e09835e_b.jpg

So i decided im going to make a build thread here of my car and its progress.

My name is mike, i work as an operator at a Chemical plant. I hail from Monmouth County, New Jersey. This is my 2001 Forester which i love.

Here it is, stock, when i got it home in middle of October 2010.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-3.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5090438657_7852c978e5_z.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1056/5126925649_fc279dc545_z.jpg

Tightened up the chassis a handful, put on a ShortRam intake, Coated the wheels myself, tinted the windows, and have loads and loads of plans for many more things on her...

Now it looks like this:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-2.jpg?t=1290363895

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0023.jpg?t=1290363484

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0020.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0019.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/Cedit1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/Bedit6-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/Bedit5-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/Bedit4-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/Bedit2-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/bedit1-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit9.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit8.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit7-1.jpg?t=1290363683

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit6-1.jpg?t=1290363895

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5-1.jpg?t=1290363895

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-1.jpg?t=1290363895

renn

11-21-2010, 04:11 PM

this car is awesome. only thing i would change is the grille.

needs more roof rack as well.

lownslow95

11-21-2010, 04:39 PM

Car does look good. Car needs more low to. Any plans as far as engine upgrades go?

Honduh

11-21-2010, 04:54 PM

Great start. I love me a forester.

But I agree with lownslow, it needs more low.

Ej6Mike

11-21-2010, 06:22 PM

The drop will be coming in time, preferably after winter. Im going with a GR2 struts and tein street lowering springs with camber adjustable tophats.

OutToWinPAHC

11-21-2010, 07:51 PM

jj.am sticker WIN

sean3

11-21-2010, 08:48 PM

The awesome smileys on the mud flaps are, well, awesome.

Ej6Mike

11-21-2010, 09:46 PM

Heres a quick list off the top of my head as to what i have installed so far, as well as things set aside awaiting install (Need more time for install or some more parts are needed before installing)

Suspension mods include:

-Cusco Front strut bar
-Whiteline rear strut bar
-Whiteline rear subframe locking bolts
-Cusco rear subframe brace (to be installed)
-Whiteline rear street swaybar links (Installed!)
-Whiteline 24mm Rear swaybar.
-Kartboy front solid swaybar links.

Motor:
-W.R. Short ram Intake
-Kartboy Pitchmount (to be installed)
-Kartboy Shortshifter and bushings
-Magnaflow highflow cat (jan '11)
-2.5" midpipe (jan '11)
-2005 STi axleback (jan '11)

Exterior:
-Rallyarmor Mudflaps
-4300k HID headlights
-4300k HID foglights with yellow laminex
-2002 OE WRX Rims (coated BBS gold)
-20% tint in the rears

Interior:

-JVC headunit and front speakers
-Alpine rear speakers.
-2010 OE WRX shiftknob

ambitiousCK

11-21-2010, 10:16 PM

i like it, its different, its a subaru..looks good to me. Good luck with everything you have planned and get some more pics up!

Ej6Mike

11-21-2010, 10:47 PM

I appreciate the kind words. Ive always had a love towards the SF5 forester chassis, esp the JDM version. Its a tough car to get parts for, being that ive only found one dealer who deals parts for it (boxer4racing) , though some are the same as the GC8 impreza (sway bar links, brakes), the other suspension parts have been tough to locate. But as time goes on andi get time to install these parts, ill do them. Things like sway-bar links and chassis braces im holding off on until i can get aftermarket (bigger) sway bars and subframe/control arm bushings installed first, rather than rip it all apart again to put them in. Like i said, its tough because some parts are compatible, and some are not, so i take it one step at a time, patiently, while i find out what will work, and what wont.

I cant wait till it snows, this is my first AWD vehicle!

The awesome smileys on the mud flaps are, well, awesome.

Thanks! It was my wifeys idea. Its our "His & Her" facial expressions of when i drive "spiritedly" lol.

Higu

11-21-2010, 11:28 PM

I love when people build odd cars. I remember your old Civic from NJT Mike, so I'm looking forward to this build

Ej6Mike

11-21-2010, 11:42 PM

You do?? thanks man :)! My civic was a well handling car and regualr at Autocross every weekend, and i plan to do the same with this forester, and this time around, because ive got a job that provides me with more than enough funds, and experience where i will acheive what i want in a faster and better fashion (civic i kind of learned on as i went along). I plan to do everything right the first time around, so patience is a virtue here.

b15mike

11-22-2010, 12:52 AM

looks good mike havent seen u in a while since the hazlet meet but last time i was there i thought i saw this it looks fresh

Rally Sport

11-22-2010, 06:31 PM

Modded fozzies are the ****! Keep up the good work!

Ej6Mike

11-22-2010, 07:53 PM

Thanks for the compliments guys! You know, as much of a toaster as it looks, the thing grips harder and better than i expected it to, moreso than my civic did, which had full coilovers, X-brace, Swaybars, strutbars, chassis braces, aftermarket Control arms, and was Autocrossed on a weekly basis for a few years. So as far as suspension goes, Im still somewhat swaying in my decision.... I have my heart set on doing Aftermarket struts with some good lowering springs, perhaps STi brand and good tophats (camber adjustable). I dont want to drop it that much, but i want a sporty feel from it, and judging by what allot of SF5 owners do on other suby forums (esp forester.org), that seems to be the best bang for the buck.

On the other hand, BC racing does make some really nice coilovers for my year that are fully adjustable so i am contemplating that, but they arent cheap, so i have some deciding to do. Although, im thinking of holding off on any ride-height changes until march/april, because i want to keep it as is for this winter.

looks good mike havent seen u in a while since the hazlet meet but last time i was there i thought i saw this it looks fresh

Thanks man! It looks a bit different now, removed a handful of stock clutter from it, detailed it up real good, and im well on my way to the vision i had in my head when i got the thing.

. I remember your old Civic from NJT Mike

This old girl? lol

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3885201299_49bfd55b36_z.jpg

Subie_sleeper

11-22-2010, 08:02 PM

Hey, I got my ISC N1s from a vendor on NASIOC. I don't go on there that often unless I'm looking for Legacy specific stuff that MIGHT fit the Baja. Lol. I'm really pleased with them over all. Less than a grand shipped. Pillow ball on all 4 corners & camber plates out front on mine. If you're a member there look up ISC coilovers & go from there. I went with AJW.

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Higu

11-22-2010, 08:06 PM

This old girl? lol

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3885201299_49bfd55b36_z.jpg

That be the one. I was Tuba Tony before I got banned lol. Like I mentioned, I love odd builds and having seen a few built Foresters, I'm excited

Ej6Mike

11-22-2010, 08:15 PM

Pics pics pics ... i love pics. Heres a few from when i coated my wheels last week

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0015.jpg?t=1290470994

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0011.jpg?t=1290471054

Removed the wheel weights, Marked where they went by camera, and tape on the inside of the rim and then smoothed the roughness out with fine grit sandpaper and finished with steel wool.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0017.jpg?t=1290471087

Primer, dry, then base coat.. then dry

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0020-1.jpg?t=1290471187

then clear coat!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0021.jpg?t=1290471187

and dry....

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0028.jpg?t=1290471187

and repeat... 3 more times lol.
Process took about 5 hours total (started at lunch and was done by dinner) , but the result was absolutley incredible. Re-installed the wheel weights when they were dry to the touch, tightened it all up and let it dry overnight.

RyanG

11-22-2010, 09:14 PM

Yesssss Fozzy owners unite!! Needs more low like mine ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v288/sidewayzrs/5ee84b80.jpg

Ej6Mike

11-22-2010, 09:18 PM

Yesssss Fozzy owners unite!! Needs more low like mine ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v288/sidewayzrs/5ee84b80.jpg

Nice!! very nice... loving the drop!

JDMTyler3326

11-22-2010, 10:38 PM

Loving the Forester! This is one of my dream cars to build.

Ej6Mike

11-22-2010, 10:42 PM

I cant wait for snow! woo!

Ej6Mike

11-22-2010, 11:25 PM

Thanks man! You guys show me too much love, im flattered :)

Edit: I just realized this weeks thanksgiving, which means weds night i may try to put togather another photoshoot. More pics coming soon, i promise!

Ej6Mike

11-23-2010, 12:01 AM

Dude, if you were building an old Subaru Loyale, or a Justy, or even one of several *dime a dozen \ Popular* cars to build....... the attitude you got from outta nowhere was totally uncalled for.
Hopefully he learned from the overwhelming amount of support you've gotten, that while he's entitled to his opinion, putting it out there just to be a dick wasn't the best idea.
Definitely hit up Ryan @ Area1320 for any parts or more involved work you might need.

thanks man, i really appreciate everyones support.
I will consider area1320 when time comes. Truth is.. I really wanted a 2008+ STi for a long time, and still do, but theres the tuner part of me who will never be satisfied with just settling down, so that little voice in my head urges me to follow in the footsteps of a few other SF5 owners ive seen on subaru forums who have swapped in full STi swaps with a few goodies to spare. Im seriously contemplating it for many reasons including, but are not limited to

-Sleeper-like status
-Fast and fun!
-Cheap on insurance
-Much more satisfaction from the aspect of accomplishing it
-Be pretty unique (how many 98-02 foresters do you know with an STi swap?)
-Have the power of an STi with the versatility of a forester ( all that room for stuff!)

Subie_sleeper

11-23-2010, 12:10 AM

EXACTLY!
Anyone can buy a popular late model car.... New or decent pre-owned.
But to take something a little (or a lot) out of the ordinary & build a beast out of it...... That's a challenge.
Let me know via PM if you need any specific parts, I might be able to help you find them.
I'm not sure how far from Allentown you are, but if it's not too bad of a drive you should come out to one of the Wednesday night meets at the Cedar Crest Blvd. Applebees. It's a great time.

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Subie_sleeper

11-24-2010, 01:15 PM

BTW, OP.... Did you look into the ISC N1 coilovers?

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Ej6Mike

11-24-2010, 08:30 PM

BTW, OP.... Did you look into the ISC N1 coilovers?

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I have , but i want something thats somewhat on the soft side. After years of driving a civic that had pretty stiff coilovers, i want to give my buttcheeks a break from the harshness. Im thinking about it tho!

Hey rallysport... thanks! Unite!

Subie_sleeper

11-24-2010, 10:46 PM

Ej6Mike

11-24-2010, 11:18 PM

Anyway...... OP, I really wish I would have gone with the street/comfort Vs. the street/track damping. 20/20 hindsight. Andrew, the owner at AJW said that the street comfort is just a hair stiffer than the typical lowering springs & upgrade struts. Now that I've discovered AutoX I'm sticking with what I have. :)
BTW, a friend of mine has an STi steering rack he's looking to get rid off. If you're interested I'll get his info to you. Gotta love a crossover that's pretty much built on the same chassis as a WRX. :thumbup:

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Hmmm... well i shall look into that, .. street/comfort is what im looking for. As far as that rack is concerned, what advantages does it give me? better steering ratio? From what i understand, anything 2002-2003 WRX wagon will be a direct swap for me (stock for stock)

Subie_sleeper

11-24-2010, 11:28 PM

Yeah it did. Its a long bumpy road to your moms house, i wish she lived closer. :/

Hmmm... well i shall look into that, .. street/comfort is what im looking for. As far as that rack is concerned, what advantages does it give me? better steering ratio? From what i understand, anything 2002-2003 WRX wagon will be a direct swap for me (stock for stock)

Better steering ratio. Not to mention it's got less than 10k miles on it. Total loss from a DUI accident. Guy blew a red-light & t-boned the STi. Frame damage did the car in, but almost the entire driveline was salvaged along with most of the front suspension. The rack is all he has left. It's from an 04-05 body style.

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Ej6Mike

11-24-2010, 11:31 PM

Better steering ratio. Not to mention it's got less than 10k miles on it. Total loss from a DUI accident. Guy blew a red-light & t-boned the STi. Frame damage did the car in, but almost the entire driveline was salvaged along with most of the front suspension. The rack is all he has left. It's from an 04-05 body style.

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Hmmm, this does sound interesting... I hope your friend is alright from that. That aside, how much would he ask for the rack?

Subie_sleeper

11-24-2010, 11:38 PM

Hmmm, this does sound interesting... I hope your friend is alright from that. That aside, how much would he ask for the rack?

He wasn't in the wreck, fortunately. He bought it from the owner. The owner was pretty much ok. Messed up his neck for a while, but he recovered.
I don't want to break forum rules, I'll pm the info on the rack.

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06slow6

11-25-2010, 03:11 AM

ej6: throw in some nice comfy seats with a good set of coils and you'll feel like your driving around on your couch lol

boostboy

11-25-2010, 03:29 AM

i think that the forester looks sick man, ive always wanted one. keep up the build ill be watching!!

Ej6Mike

11-26-2010, 09:53 AM

i think that the forester looks sick man, ive always wanted one. keep up the build ill be watching!!

Thanks man! ill be sure to try and not to disappoint... ask anyone who knows me and my cars lol.

Update:

I finally got around to ordering up a beefy Whiteline 22-24mm adjustable rear sway bar from Evasive Motorsports this morning (black friday sale ftw!) . As soon as it comes this week, ill pair it up with the whiteline rear swaybar links already have and throw it on. Pictures of it/ of the install ,to come as soon as it gets here!

edit: Heres a quick vid from whiteline themself, explaining how it works:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ISNWRMB6c4

Subie_sleeper

11-26-2010, 10:29 AM

Sweet! New parts FTW!

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Ej6Mike

11-26-2010, 02:51 PM

I lurve pikshars!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0072.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0070-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0074.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0075.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0077.jpg

I know i know.... I need some TLC and cleaning under the hood here

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0079.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0082.jpg

And my smiley flap loves my OE muffler apparently.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0073.jpg

Update:

Picked up a new set of 9006 4300k HID bulbs (only) for my fogs ( currently have set of 3000k in there) and ordered some yellow fog/headlight Laminex Film. I did this because i love the look of yellow fog housings and theres no use having yellow HIDs behind yellow fogs.

Ej6Mike

11-26-2010, 10:34 PM

So i was contemplating custom fabbing a Heatsheild to isolate the intake filter. Ive seen pics of it done before, and from what i understand, all i need is a 1 foot by 1 foot (at least) piece of sturdy sheet metal, ... in other words, nothing too flimsy. Ive taken a trip to home depot and lowes, but to no avail, all they offer is flimsy sheet metal. Any advice of what type of shop or store would sell such metal? (talking like.. 1/8th inch thickness.)

Rally Sport

11-26-2010, 11:04 PM

yellow fogs ftw! I painted mine with stained glass paint last year. Looks really good.

sleeperSL2

11-26-2010, 11:58 PM

Looks good! I like how it's coming together..
http://juiceboxforyou.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/img_4160.jpg

don't think it's the same model..but still. haha

Subie_sleeper

11-27-2010, 12:38 AM

I have the old SPT heat-shield from my short ram lying on the back deck. it didn't work with the new intake so Ryan pulled it off. It's yours if you want it.

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Ej6Mike

11-27-2010, 12:54 AM

I have the old SPT heat-shield from my short ram lying on the back deck. it didn't work with the new intake so Ryan pulled it off. It's yours if you want it.

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Oh gosh, yes! Pm me for price and details?

Subie_sleeper

11-27-2010, 11:16 AM

Mike, it's literally laying outside. I don't want anything for it. LOL.

It's the SPT heat-shield that goes with the SPT short ram intake for a WRX.

We can figure out a time to meet up. If I wind up having to ship it, I doubt it'll be more than 10 - 15 bucks.

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Ej6Mike

11-27-2010, 10:36 PM

Subie_sleeper

11-27-2010, 11:12 PM

Shoot me a PM with your address.
I'll see what the shipping will cost.

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Rally Sport

11-28-2010, 12:34 AM

Aww, guys. haha jk.

Ej6Mike

12-01-2010, 06:54 PM

Treated myself to a set of great sounding speakers today. Best buy had a sale going on, so i hopped on that oppritunity and got myself a pair of Alpline speakers for the rear (some good bass) and Pioneer speakers up front with replacements for my factory tweeters. Im not looking to let the whole world know what im listening to, but boy it does sound nice and clear now compared to stock ones.

So, good news. I found a shop local to me (20 mins away) that i stopped in at to get a quote on a timing belt kit. Ive always passed the place, but never really paid it much notice, thinking it was like any other small shop that does repairs. Its a family run performance muffler/suspension/general repair shop apparently. After conversing with them for a little about modifications, they told me that they would be happy to help me align my forester once its lowered and has the proper parts (coilovers, camber adjustable tophats for the front, and adjustable lower lateral links in the rear). This gave me more inspiration to go that route now, rather than lowering springs/aftermarket strut combo. Who knows when i will commit to doing coilovers and all of that jazz, probably after winter has passed ... i want to keep it at its current stock height for clearance, incase this year is as bad as last year.

Got a few other Misc. goodies in the mail coming between this week, and next. Expect pics as they arrive and are installed!

Rally Sport

12-02-2010, 06:25 PM

... i want to keep it at its current stock height for clearance, incase this year is as bad as last year.

I really hope not. I was at stock ride height and i got stuck twice, and now im lowered :(. Should be interesting..

Subie_sleeper

12-02-2010, 11:33 PM

I really hope not. I was at stock ride height and i got stuck twice, and now im lowered :(. Should be interesting..

Dedicated snow tires FTW!

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ambitiousCK

12-02-2010, 11:44 PM

I really hope not. I was at stock ride height and i got stuck twice, and now im lowered :(. Should be interesting..

lol i hear ya man! Starting in 2nd with an awd car doesnt make sense lol

Subie_sleeper

12-02-2010, 11:50 PM

http://tapa.tk/mu/40795ff6-68dd-7cc5.jpg
4 winters & 1 summer (+ 1 AutoX :))

http://tapa.tk/mu/40795ff6-68fb-5054.jpg
Brand spankin' new!

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Ej6Mike

12-05-2010, 06:19 PM

I may get some winter-specific tires for mount and use for the next few months if it turns out to be bad out. Otherwise i think my Michellin all seasons (new) will be fine.

On another note... I laminexed my Fogs yesterday morning, and got around to installing my new front swaybar links this morning.

Cell phone pic, sorry lol.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/downsized_1204001040.jpg

And the links before i installed them.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0176.jpg

They make a slight difference, but i cant wait to install the rear solid links with my 22mm adjustable sway (sway arrives sometime this week)

Ej6Mike

12-06-2010, 08:12 PM

Look what santa...er... the UPS man brought today to comppliment my solid rear sway bar links (not yet pictured) ..........

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0270.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0272.jpg

unwrapped....

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0274.jpg

alexdoubleu

12-06-2010, 10:01 PM

looks good man! makes me want a forester now!

jgartland

12-07-2010, 08:55 PM

good start man! i want an SF when i pay off the SG..

and this one
http://juiceboxforyou.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/img_4160.jpg

has like 500whp. he pops up on the forester forums like once a year and updates everyone. guys a wizard and from north jersey..

twizhimself

12-08-2010, 05:48 PM

^thats my model :-)

man seeing this thread is making me want to do stuff to mine....uugh

Ej6Mike

12-08-2010, 05:57 PM

Pics of the yellow laminexed fogs, and 24mm (adj) swaybar install / Solid endlinks. Makes a really big difference over the stock 18mm sippy straw.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0277.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0278.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0279.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0280.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0282.jpg

dudewheresmycar

12-08-2010, 09:24 PM

looking good!

ambitiousCK

12-08-2010, 09:30 PM

Looks good man keep it up

tristatesentra

12-09-2010, 03:22 AM

nice mike!!! u really did leave the honda game lol nice forrester love the 1st gens

Ej6Mike

12-14-2010, 10:26 PM

Looks good man keep it up

Thanks man! The thing handles tight! Im very pleased with how it drives now.

nice mike!!! u really did leave the honda game lol nice forrester love the 1st gens

Thanks chris! Yeah, i dropped it like a bad habit and never looked back. Its technically a later gen of the first gen. The 97-00 foz's have MAF sensors, which ended up causing issues, among a few other bugs ( i can attest to this firsthand with my brothers f*cked up 99 forester that ive slaved over to fix) ... my year (01-02) they switched to a MAP sensor and simplified everything.

856jersey

12-14-2010, 10:32 PM

hahaha i love the sticker placements

Ej6Mike

12-15-2010, 06:49 PM

hahaha i love the sticker placements

LOL thanks man, it always amuses me. It was the wifeys idea.

Ej6Mike

12-15-2010, 07:15 PM

Poking fun at myself here a little..... A friend once told me that i drive a "vermont Lesbian wagon" .... google turned this up..

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/forester.jpg

Subie_sleeper

12-18-2010, 05:15 PM

Mike, I totally forgot to put that heatshield in the mail, AGAIN.

DOH.....

It's going to go out Monday. Really really REALLY this time. :)

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Ej6Mike

12-18-2010, 06:00 PM

Mike, I totally forgot to put that heatshield in the mail, AGAIN.

DOH.....

It's going to go out Monday. Really really REALLY this time. :)

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

thanks man, i really appreciate it! Ive looked ALL over for one!

Update:

Today, I installed white LED reverse lights and amber LED front turn signals (with proper load resistor) from superbrightLEDS.com. It looks crisp and sharp now, and when off, the housing is clear without an amber bulb reflecting inside it. I like it allot. Next step will be to do the rear turn signals and brake lights

Subie_sleeper

12-18-2010, 06:20 PM

thanks man, i really appreciate it! Ive looked ALL over for one!

Update:

Today, I installed white LED reverse lights and amber LED front turn signals (with proper load resistor) from superbrightLEDS.com. It looks crisp and sharp now, and when off, the housing is clear without an amber bulb reflecting inside it. I like it allot. Next step will be to do the rear turn signals and brake lights

Night time PICS of reverse lights!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Subie_sleeper

12-21-2010, 07:48 PM

Heatshield was mailed today!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ej6Mike

12-26-2010, 05:18 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5293936442_b6b5f29241_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5293936124_506987c74f_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5293340613_86c2711197_b.jpg

Notice anything different? I installed some generic rally-style auxilary lights on my bumper. Not wired yet, i cant seem to find an easy way to wire it into the cabin so im using a cheap remote kit to turn them on and off.

In the snow, this car has exceeded my wildest expectations of what i thought was possible. Drove with my whole family in it out and around for 2 hours in these crazy conditions. The car handles the snow admirably.

caldwell

12-26-2010, 05:36 PM

<3 more high right now lol

Rally Sport

12-26-2010, 05:39 PM

The lights look good! I'd love to get two and mount them in the winter with my old grille, it'd be great for the snow plus it would give it a great rally look.

Ej6Mike

12-26-2010, 05:45 PM

<3 more high right now lol
lol loving the height right now... like i said... not TOUCHING the coilovers until winter has passed. Save myself the trouble.

The lights look good! I'd love to get two and mount them in the winter with my old grille, it'd be great for the snow plus it would give it a great rally look.

Thanks man! their still non functional as of yet... waiting on a cheesy remote / relay kit to save myself the trouble of having to wire it into the cabin, because honestly, im new to this car and do not see a practical way in yet for wires. The interior wiring harnesses lead out into the fenders first, before they reach the engine bay, so no use there trying to follow that, so a remote kit wil keep all the wiring in the bay, and ill stick the switch in my ash-tray.

Rally Sport

12-26-2010, 05:55 PM

Thanks man! their still non functional as of yet... waiting on a cheesy remote / relay kit to save myself the trouble of having to wire it into the cabin, because honestly, im new to this car and do not see a practical way in yet for wires. The interior wiring harnesses lead out into the fenders first, before they reach the engine bay, so no use there trying to follow that, so a remote kit wil keep all the wiring in the bay, and ill stick the switch in my ash-tray.

Yea, i hear you. Is there any way to tap into the existing foglight wires instead of bringing it into the cabin, that's what i was thinking about.

tranceporter

12-26-2010, 06:10 PM

dope mike!

Ej6Mike

12-26-2010, 06:15 PM

Yea, i hear you. Is there any way to tap into the existing foglight wires instead of bringing it into the cabin, that's what i was thinking about.

I would, but id rather have them be separately operated. I contemplated the idea at the time though, so i know what you mean, but id rather not tap into the factory wiring, and let it be on its own circuit.

dope mike!

thanks mang! S2k is looking pretty awsome these days.... though i cant vouch for its ability to handle this nasty storm.

Higu

12-26-2010, 06:42 PM

Ej6Mike

12-26-2010, 07:14 PM

You should be able to wire the wires through the heatshield by one of the drive or brake lines that go into the engine bay. that's I did with mine, then end it with a switch under the dash for now. Use a screwdriver to widen the gromit enough to stick the wires through and presto

You know, i did think of trying that, because the hood cable and AC lines do what you described, i pryed them back a tad and stuck my LED pen light in.... and then i got under the dash to see where the light came in, but to no avail it was still hidden and i could not seem to find where they were. The remote kit was a whopping 11.95 + a few bucks shipping, and it makes life a little easier. Not to mention as soon as i got done mounting the lights in the pre-existing bumper holes (stupid cow-plow guard from previous owner) the snow began to fall, hard, lol. I called it a day

Higu

12-26-2010, 07:18 PM

At least you had pre existing holes lol. Pics of said guard? I might want to pic it up

Ej6Mike

12-26-2010, 07:25 PM

At least you had pre existing holes lol. Pics of said guard? I might want to pic it up

unfortunatley, said guard is thrown away, it was a cheesy ABS plastic option from the dealership. It was on the car when i got it. I would have totally given it to you, but my dad took allot of the factory stuff i pulled off the car (stock intake, mudflaps, old heatsheilds, that bumperguard ) and tossed them away one day when i was at work when he was clearing out the garage.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1056/5126925649_fc279dc545_z.jpg

and luckily, yes! i did have pre-existing holes from where it mounted, in perfect spots on the bumper with nice 12mm bolts in the center of them. Win.

Higu

12-26-2010, 07:30 PM

Oh that's what it was? That would not of been of any use to me at all lol. Thanks though. I'm looking for a more full size one that covers the entire fron grill and wraps around though

Ej6Mike

01-08-2011, 02:33 PM

LOVING this snow :)

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-4.jpg

Updates:

- Removed and traded rear window visor for an OEM hatch spoiler (painted)
- 2005 STi Axleback ( needs some cleaning...will post pics after its sanded / coated, and installed)

Now im looking to find a set of used 2002-2003 WRX wagon (stock) coilovers, which will drop it about 2.5-3 inches all around and still retain a comfortable ride quality thats a tad stiffer. I came to this decision because the car is a daily driver and i want it to remain comfortable for my long commute to work.

Other than that, the car has been driving like a champ in these past 2 snow storms, esp with a good set of tires for it.

Subie_sleeper

01-08-2011, 03:24 PM

Did you ever get that heat-shield to work?

RyanG

01-08-2011, 03:34 PM

Mike, I suggest running Impreza suspension buddy. I just switched from my WRX set up and I love it.

I used RS front struts, springs, top hats. Forester rear struts, top hats and RS springs.

The Forester struts in the back allowed me to use 225/55r16's and also kept the ass from sagging. She sits level now, is still lowered and rides like stock :)

Ej6Mike

01-08-2011, 04:10 PM

Did you ever get that heat-shield to work?

Yes, the heatsheild will work with a few tweaks just fine. Havent had the time to devote to it just yet, been very snowy/cold and works been busy. I will get around to it soon tho!

Mike, I suggest running Impreza suspension buddy. I just switched from my WRX set up and I love it.

I used RS front struts, springs, top hats. Forester rear struts, top hats and RS springs.

The Forester struts in the back allowed me to use 225/55r16's and also kept the ass from sagging. She sits level now, is still lowered and rides like stock :)

Quoted for truth, you did suggest it, and thank you :)

So all i need are RS springs for the rear, and complete front RS coilvers? In that case, i may invest in some aftermarket RS front struts and run the RS springs, and aftermarket struts in the rear with the RS springs, have a fresh start.

PS, i sent an email to area1320 a little while back about putting togather a price quote on an STi motor/drivetrain setup swap. Was wondering if you got that, i know you were prob busy at the time, lol

Ej6Mike

01-12-2011, 09:02 PM

Gave the Ru a dirty little shoot. Shes all nasty and salty.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-5.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit7-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-3.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit6-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit8-1.jpg

Pics and angles arent my best work. It was cold and i needed to get out of the house, so i decided to grab my camera when i did.

updates...

Wing came ... need to make template of some sort to mount it properly. Any advice would be appreciated from anyone who has experience mounting a hatch spoiler.

..also..

Exhaust goes on saturday....

STi Axleback with custom mid-pipe (catback essentially). ..... thanks to RayCo auto performance.

Big_Jim

01-12-2011, 09:18 PM

Wing came ... need to make template of some sort to mount it properly. Any advice would be appreciated from anyone who has experience mounting a hatch spoiler.

Does the wing have the mounting studs sticking out of it, or is it just threaded so the bolt goes in it?

Ej6Mike

01-12-2011, 09:20 PM

2 pre-threaded holes and 2 studs, towards the outside of it. Ill take pics when i can and post.
on the inside of the hatch, i removed the plastic trim and found pre-cut out access holes to where the bolts will roughly come thru. My issue is figuring a way to properly mount it right the first time around.

ambitiousCK

01-12-2011, 09:23 PM

I noticed STi swap.... =) TE-37s and dropped and you have a ridiculous car =)

Big_Jim

01-12-2011, 09:28 PM

so the bolts go through the hatch into the spoiler? or is there nuts that get threaded onto studs that are already on the spoiler?

i'll give you a method for each:

if the spoiler had threaded studs that a nut gets threaded onto from inside the hatch:
align the spoiler how you want it to sit on the hatch, and tape it off with some painters tape. get a bright colored paint marker and dab the tip of the marker on the studs. line the spoiler back up with your tape markings, allowing the paint marker to transfer to your paint. drill, clean up, and bolt on.

if the spoiler has some threaded holes:
thread the bolts into the spoiler, use a bright colored paint marker, color the head of the bolt, and align the spoiler on the car. press hard enough to have the paint transfer over. drill, later rinse and repeat.

Ej6Mike

01-13-2011, 06:04 PM

Ej6Mike

01-15-2011, 11:37 AM

So ive got good news and bad news folks......

Good news is that right not (on a droid) im getting my Sti exhaust fabbed on. I cant wait to hear how it sounds.

The bad news? I found out that my driverside headgasket has what some suby fans call the phase 1 leak ... or in other words.. its got an external leak of fluid(s)
As much as this sucks, it doesnt make the car undrivable... just gotta check the fluids every day or 2 to be safe until i can schedule an appointment to get it done. The thing that does suck is that to subaru headgaskets, the motor must be pulled ..... so its a $1000 plus job

So you take the good with the bad. The exhaust will consist of a highflow secondary cat, 2.75 inch midpipping to a 2005 sti muffler. This should keep it low key but still have a little rumble when i get on it.

Rally Sport

01-15-2011, 05:33 PM

My subie leaks oil too, maybe a drop or two every couple days. It runs down the oil filter, but it's not from the filter gasket. I've always just assumed it's the headgasket and it's a tiny leak, it hasn't changed and i bought it like that so i don't worry about it, i just make sure to add some oil every so often.

I wanna hear the sti exhaust! I really wanna get a new exhaust too and give my subie some rumble.

Ej6Mike

01-15-2011, 09:28 PM

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/2011-01-15_13-42-58_381.jpg

I still have yet to scuff it up, smooth it, and paint it, as well as polish the tip out reaalllly good.

It sounds real nice. The highflow cat def makes a difference (overall) for the midrange pickup feel. Its got a nice deep bass tone to it when i get on it with that boxer rumble. Its not loud, its mild at WOT. I absolutely love it!

Ej6Mike

01-16-2011, 06:59 PM

Pardon my saltyness. Some better shots of the catback full exhaust.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0232.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_0235.jpg

Ej6Mike

01-16-2011, 09:40 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5041/5361771555_4158119708_b.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-4.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit8-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/bedit12.jpg

RyanG

01-16-2011, 11:12 PM

needs more lowerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Ej6Mike

01-17-2011, 10:45 AM

needs more lowerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Thats my next project, lol, have no worrys. Im in the process of trying to find some 2002-2003 WRX wagon suspension, perhaps get new GR2 struts for them and slap em on with some butt sag spacers in the rear. But that will be in the spring when snow has left us lol. With the way this winter has been going, my ride height has been a true advantage.

In the meantime, im focused on getting the Headgaskets replaced this week at a shop, and while they are in there, get the waterpump/timing belt done as well. Its gonna cost allot (~11 hours labor) but its what has to be done... theres coolant dripping slowly from the DS headgasket. Im not gonna waste time / money on putting high-end sealers in to slow it down... i plan to keep this car, so im going to spend the money to have it done right.

856jersey

01-17-2011, 11:26 AM

Nice cant go wrong with a STI exhaust on a forester :)

wagenz

01-17-2011, 11:50 AM

nice fozzie man

Ej6Mike

01-17-2011, 12:08 PM

Nice cant go wrong with a STI exhaust on a forester :)
Thank you! It sounds nice... deep and boxer-y lol. Can feel a big difference in the mid-range too.
nice fozzie man
Thank you sir! i appreciate the kind words.

RyanG

01-17-2011, 12:15 PM

pm sent on hg replacements ;)

Ej6Mike

01-17-2011, 12:39 PM

pm sent on hg replacements ;)

PM replied

Ej6Mike

01-23-2011, 09:08 AM

Update:

So i got the car back from the shop friday with some pretty big maintenance items taken care of...

-Headgaskets
-Timing belt
-Waterpump
-Tensioners
-Fanbelts
-thermostat
-Valve cover gaskets
-Sparkplug grommets / plugs / wires
-Many various seals / gaskets
-Valve job
-I had the head and block machined as well at a machine shop.

Results?

Aside from a bill that made my butt clench up, the car has a fresh start. Last week i found a leak of coolant / oil from the block after i got my full exhaust fabbed. Rather than waste time trying to put a bandaid on it, i took it right back to the shop i got my exhaust done and got a fair price for all of that work, so i didnt hesitate. They put their best guy on the job and i had it back in 48 hours from when i dropped it. The cars good for another 100k miles.

I finally have had a real chance to play around with the car now, and im really impressed. The exhaust sounds amazing, it pulls noticably harder (Exhaust as well as a fresh start on bottom end parts?) and im very satisfied with it. I went with the perfect exhaust combo and it sounds just like a WRX cruising along down the street.

Next on my list?

Track down some 2002-2003 WRX wagon springs ... OR... 99-01 2.5RS springs and pair them with some KYB AGX adjustable struts (for a 2002-2003 WRX wagon) . I feel this is the perfect combo for a daily driver, combining stock spring rate comfort for daily driving with better struts, all while lowering the ride height.

ambitiousCK

01-23-2011, 09:42 AM

Holy maintenance lol cars coming together very nicely

Ej6Mike

01-23-2011, 03:53 PM

Ooo! I also still have a painted OE rear hatch spoiler to install. I have an idea of how im going to do it based on advice from the last page... just need it to get a little warmer outside. Cant find much motivation when its ~20 degrees outside.

Ej6Mike

02-10-2011, 09:07 PM

Made some time on the way home from work for a quick shot:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/5435079180_6116a0732e_b.jpg

Needs moar low....
As soon as all this snow starts to melt away, im in the market for 2002-2007 WRX stock coilovers. If anyone has their own or know of someones for sale, im very interested come spring time.

Ej6Mike

02-12-2011, 03:23 PM

Hey rob! I finally made use of that heatshield you bestowed upon me so kindly...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/1aaa.jpg

Buster

02-12-2011, 03:56 PM

if you dont mind, could you pm me what it cost? i have an 01 rs in need of head gaskets an oil pan and gasket and valve cover gaskets but i dont like what my shop quoted me.

Ej6Mike

02-12-2011, 10:47 PM

if you dont mind, could you pm me what it cost? i have an 01 rs in need of head gaskets an oil pan and gasket and valve cover gaskets but i dont like what my shop quoted me.

Ill send ya a PM, but your not going to like what it costs either... but i had Waaayyyy more than just headgaskets done... i had the whole bottom end refreshed with new seals, gaskets, waterpump, thermostat, timing belt, tensioners, valve job, heads and block machined down slightly, ect.

ambitiousCK

02-12-2011, 10:50 PM

Hey rob! I finally made use of that heatshield you bestowed upon me so kindly...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/1aaa.jpg

wow that thing looks nasty lol like you could impale someone with it lol

Ej6Mike

02-12-2011, 10:55 PM

Believe it or not, it actually is pretty sharp, haha. Its an ebay brand Weapon-R intake. Ill eventually get around to getting a K&N cone to put on, but for the time being this thing screams like all hell when i get on it.

also.... little shoot i did with a friend... goto www.FlickR.com/sk8nrocker23 to see all the pics... i wont post them all here because not many of them have my car in it haha. Lots of subaru content though!

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5437373695_f9bf459d97_b.jpg

ambitiousCK

02-12-2011, 11:05 PM

Car looks great as always man, so whats next on the list of things to do? STi swap? :)

Ej6Mike

02-12-2011, 11:11 PM

Car looks great as always man, so whats next on the list of things to do? STi swap? :)

lol perhaps. I would do that down the road once i get another daily.

But next up for sure is suspension. I want to locate some 2002-2007 WRX stock coil/struts .... toss the struts and put in KYB GR2's. With the stock wrx spring, i think it would be a managable ride for a daily driven vehicle with a bit of an edge to it. Plus it will drop the car down to where ill have no wheel gap in the fenders. Im not looking to go crazy and slam it, just something subtle and fun, yet practical. Commuting 60+ miles per day / 5 days per week is not something i want to do on stiff suspension.

ambitiousCK

02-12-2011, 11:15 PM

lol perhaps. I would do that down the road once i get another daily.

But next up for sure is suspension. I want to locate some 2002-2007 WRX stock coil/struts .... toss the struts and put in KYB GR2's. With the stock wrx spring, i think it would be a managable ride for a daily driven vehicle with a bit of an edge to it. Plus it will drop the car down to where ill have no wheel gap in the fenders. Im not looking to go crazy and slam it, just something subtle and fun, yet practical. Commuting 60+ miles per day / 5 days per week is not something i want to do on stiff suspension.

sounds like a plan to me :lol:

Ej6Mike

02-20-2011, 09:29 AM

UPDATE!

Snow is melting...so...The suspension build has begun!

So far i have ordered :
- 2005 WRX (oe) springs
- FastWRX 3/8" butt spacers for the rear

Things im going to order in the near future :

- KYB GR2 struts for a 2005 WRX
- Group N tophats for front and rear.

Im halfway there! This is a setup that another forester owner (same year) has used with great results, so i plan to follow.

RyanG

02-20-2011, 02:17 PM

what size tire do you plan on running???

Ej6Mike

02-21-2011, 09:35 PM

what size tire do you plan on running???

RIght now im riding on 215/65/16s but i plan to eventally to either swap out to different rims for the summer... OR... go 225/55/16 on my currents.

Rally Sport

02-21-2011, 10:40 PM

yeeea more low! can't wait to see it.

Ej6Mike

03-12-2011, 08:22 AM

Suspension build is coming along slow because ive decided to go with a little more practical and easier route. Rather than slam it with WRX springs and who knows what struts and adapters...im selling the springs and butt spacers... and am going to get factory KYB GR2 replacements, and im about to order up some Swift Lowering springs (street stiff) . This way its got some better handling springs over factory ones. Its going to take a little longer, but it will be worth it.

In the meantime.... i mades a montage with my new camera ... Canon 600D

http://vimeo.com/20945393

check it!

Rally Sport

03-12-2011, 11:18 AM

I'm, lowered on swifts, i love them, couldn't be happier.

Ej6Mike

03-17-2011, 11:16 AM

I'm, lowered on swifts, i love them, couldn't be happier.

Awsome! Still having trouble finding my specific year though.

So ive unfortunatley fell victim to the pesky p0420 CEL code, aka, Cat below threshold. This is a common issue with older N/A subarus (that i know of) apparently. I thought it may be from my high-flow cat, but that comes with a guaruntee of OBD2 legality.

For now, ive narrowed it down to faulty oxygen sensors, and the need for a basic tuneup. So today i ordered up new Oxygen sensors, plugs and wires, and fuel filter. This should help the situation out and get that pesky code to go away.

Ej6Mike

03-27-2011, 08:13 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv2ICczUYGM

Little montage i made

02kgeezy

03-27-2011, 09:54 PM

it may be from you hfc. you can always try the spark plug anti fouler trick.

Ej6Mike

03-28-2011, 03:20 PM

Could be from the highflow. The cat is a magnaflow and it comes with certificate of OBDII legality. I have a fouler i am going to put on there from my honda days.

02kgeezy

03-28-2011, 04:48 PM

yeah i have the magnaflow hiflow as well and its throwin the same code.

Ej6Mike

03-30-2011, 08:11 PM

Updates:

Took my tax return and bought....

1.) STi Pitch stop.
2.) Kartboy rear diff and crossmember bushing inserts
3.) Kartboy Front transmission mount bushing inserts
4.) Whiteline 30mm solid Steering rack bushings
5.) Kartboy rear shifter bushings.
6.) Lathewerks 3 inch Rally shifter extension.

Suspension goodies should be in by monday, and the shifter extnesion gets made by Lathewerks, and that has a 2 week expectancy, since its made from scratch. Should keep me busy awhile.

AND... i FINALLY got around to installing my OEM wing... didnt take good pics yet... but i gots a cellphone picture..... here ya go, little teaser.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/206818_10150524528855562_902350561_17849353_769883 1_n.jpg

Made some DIY templates and mocked it up with painters tape and a sharpy marker. Did some careful measuring with my father (he helped center it using some technique that worked amazing) .... got it FIRST try. DONE! Im very pleased with it!

Next? Borla headers likely

sleeperSL2

03-30-2011, 08:22 PM

This is the Subaru noob in me, what exactly is a pitch stop?

Ej6Mike

03-30-2011, 08:29 PM

This is the Subaru noob in me, what exactly is a pitch stop?

Basically like a torque mount. The boxers have one Top Dead Center in back that goes from firewall to back of the intake manifold area. It reduces movement in the motor when under load. I got an Aftermarket brand thats much stiffer than stock, so think of it as like... one of those Ingalls torque dampers .., except its solid and isnt a small piston.

sleeperSL2

03-30-2011, 08:37 PM

Oh! okay haha i get it, thanks!

redlegacygt

03-31-2011, 10:00 PM

RuhRohh

03-31-2011, 10:29 PM

stop teasing and show moar pictures!

twizhimself

04-01-2011, 01:08 PM

nice dude! where didja get the wing from?

Ej6Mike

04-01-2011, 05:17 PM

looks good man. Def. a nice looking forester. If ya dont already know, get a set of the borla replicas on ebay, rather then the actual borla's. Alot of people have had alot of problems with the borlas.

Thank you sir! Actually... Quite the opposite with my experience. The Ebay header was one of the very first things i bought, being that many people told me it would work well. It, in fact, was an epic fail. Not only did the ports not match up, they were off by a longshot. So i did some cutting, drilling and bending to get the ports as close as i could ( cheapest 170$ i ever spent) , but now that the ports matched, the cat flange was off by miles. So i went back, did some tweaking again, so the cat flange was closer, but now the drivers side port was warped and not matching. Did this back and forth for about 3 hours until i got it close, at which point i now found a stress fracture in one of the bends. Biggest dissappointment of my life. So i have commited myself to the borlas because they come with a guaruntee, despite their pricetag thats twice of the ebay garbage. Factory, my headers are UEL (despite many debates in the past, they are in fact considered Unequal) and have a nice boxer purr to them when driving. The Borla Headers are much more unequal than stock and will give my car a very deep and very choppy boxer rumble, more like a turbo-backed STi, rather than what it sounds like now, which is pretty subtle.
stop teasing and show moar pictures!

Working on it... needs a wash, and less rain. I promise excellence. Maybe evern later tonight.

nice dude! where didja get the wing from?

Traded with a forester.org member who wanted my factory rainguard. He happened to have my exact same year/color. Total Win. I actually traded in December, but i didnt get the chance till now due to the weather and lack of a template.

Now i cant wait for the barage of goodies to make their way to me. I heard the steering rack bushings make a pretty noticable difference, and i cant wait to feel the combo of the STi Pitch mount + Front trans crossmember solid bushings + Rear diff solid bushings .... should make for some nice throttle response.

Ej6Mike

04-01-2011, 11:21 PM

Some new shots.... no more teaser.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5299/5581300914_98a64eca9c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5581301200_b466756abd_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5580713505_c6f5dd409e_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5225/5581300586_07006bc373_b.jpg

sleeperSL2

04-01-2011, 11:25 PM

Looks good!

redlegacygt

04-02-2011, 09:20 PM

Thank you sir! Actually... Quite the opposite with my experience. The Ebay header was one of the very first things i bought, being that many people told me it would work well. It, in fact, was an epic fail. Not only did the ports not match up, they were off by a longshot. So i did some cutting, drilling and bending to get the ports as close as i could ( cheapest 170$ i ever spent) , but now that the ports matched, the cat flange was off by miles. So i went back, did some tweaking again, so the cat flange was closer, but now the drivers side port was warped and not matching. Did this back and forth for about 3 hours until i got it close, at which point i now found a stress fracture in one of the bends. Biggest dissappointment of my life. So i have commited myself to the borlas because they come with a guaruntee, despite their pricetag thats twice of the ebay garbage. Factory, my headers are UEL (despite many debates in the past, they are in fact considered Unequal) and have a nice boxer purr to them when driving. The Borla Headers are much more unequal than stock and will give my car a very deep and very choppy boxer rumble, more like a turbo-backed STi, rather than what it sounds like now, which is pretty subtle.

Working on it... needs a wash, and less rain. I promise excellence. Maybe evern later tonight.

Traded with a forester.org member who wanted my factory rainguard. He happened to have my exact same year/color. Total Win. I actually traded in December, but i didnt get the chance till now due to the weather and lack of a template.

Now i cant wait for the barage of goodies to make their way to me. I heard the steering rack bushings make a pretty noticable difference, and i cant wait to feel the combo of the STi Pitch mount + Front trans crossmember solid bushings + Rear diff solid bushings .... should make for some nice throttle response.

well that definitely sucks. I have the ebay ones and havent had a problem.I do know there were a couple companies making them on ebay and I've heard some of the quality isnt great. There's also been alot of people on the legacy forum who bought new borlas only to have them crack and break numerous times, then just buy the ebay ones and not have a problem with them. Guess thats the luck of the draw. Hopefully you have better luck with the borlas.

PS: those pictures are sweet!

Ej6Mike

04-02-2011, 09:51 PM

ambitiousCK

04-02-2011, 09:52 PM

looking good, keep it up!

redlegacygt

04-02-2011, 10:12 PM

Actually i take back what i said about the ebays..... Theres an ebay brand called OBX which many SF5 drivers ( on forester.org) have claimed work well and dont have any issues as far as fitment or wear. I may look into it.... their priced between the crappy style i bought ($170) and the borlas ($400) at a fair $275ish

yeah there's a few on the legacy forum that have had success with them too. I wanted to go with the borla's as well when i was looking at headers, but there were so many having problems that i figured id just go with the ebay ones and i've been happy i did ever since. I'll have to check which one i bought from, if i do i'll let you know.

Ej6Mike

04-03-2011, 12:07 PM

Thanks man... i appreciate it!

Yesterday... new shiftknob (Kartboy) and 3inch Latheworks extension came.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/208117_10150528370015562_902350561_17885182_768575 _n.jpg

It feels nice and solid, still with a short throw from the kartboy SS and its firm with the shifter bushings... but on weds my solid rear shifter mount comes and that will really tighten up the feel!

Ej6Mike

04-06-2011, 08:43 PM

UPS man was like santa today...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/205502_10150535535110562_902350561_17950704_626516 1_n.jpg

Ej6Mike

04-08-2011, 04:08 PM

Everythings installed except for the steering rack bushings. These seem to be the most difficult and i cant seem to find any DIY threads on the interwebs of how to do it step by step.

Ej6Mike

04-09-2011, 11:34 PM

Spent my day off detailing my car to perfection. Compound, wax and polish, all with proper prepwork (masking tape) and tools (highspeed and Dual orbital). Here were the results...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5144/5604520621_1d8c131a53_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5604520313_21e00bd0f0_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5226/5605106404_3dc4e3223a_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/5605108040_f83ccc5a1c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5605107794_8100c29deb_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5604521755_066d597eae_b.jpg

I need to hit my grill up with another layer of paint. It survived the winter but its got quite a collection of chips in it from daily driving 60miles to work, 5 days per week.

Ej6Mike

04-16-2011, 01:24 PM

Update:

Got my hands on 2003 WRX struts and springs with really low miles. Ordered up STi Group N tophats and they should be here by the end of the week. My saggy butt spacers are ready to go! This thing is gonna lose about 3 to 3.5 inches of ride height! woot! So this car will be dropping very soon!

Also... playing around with this setup.... Still in the works.... Im going to shave off that filter side so the filter faces to the fender more. Rocking it like this for now.... and boy does it sound deeper and pull a little harder up top! Stole the idea from a build i saw on forester.org, figured id try it to see how well it worked and it actually makes a difference.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/mail.jpg

And yes, i know, its dirty..... I need some suggestions. I want to degrease the whole thing, but aside from covering the alternator up, what else should i be worried about under there when it comes to spraying it all out with detergents and a hose?

Ej6Mike

04-17-2011, 08:42 PM

The result of a days hard work of engine cleaning / detailing... cellfone shot doesnt do it justice....

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/207985_10150552682745562_902350561_18107149_84772_ n.jpg

ourbloodykisses

04-17-2011, 09:11 PM

nice nice

Ej6Mike

04-22-2011, 05:12 PM

Thanks jake! Needed a little spring cleaning.

Ej6Mike

04-22-2011, 08:51 PM

So after the engine work (block/head machined down for higher C/R) , intake, (soon to be bigger header) , High flow cat, and full exhaust.... I have been itching to get a new edge with this motor..... a pre-loaded tune. I know this could probably smooth out my power band. Right now it feels like great low end power.... lacks a little in the middle and then really picks up like all hell towards the top.

My question... whats available to me? I could get a Cobb Accessport for a same year 2.5RS (same motor) and spend the $500 for something that will only get me a few extra horses

..or..

Is there an alternative route? Perhaps some sort of Open Source tuning, using a Laptop Program and cable that wont break the bank account.

Ive really been contemplating this lately, perhaps anyone with experience could chime in here.

Ej6Mike

04-23-2011, 08:08 AM

A few pics i snapped

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5224/5646146206_2eed6c2138_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5268/5645582919_df86ac9a2d_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5224/5646146852_576b04281f_b.jpg

Ej6Mike

04-29-2011, 09:56 PM

Suspension build Part 1:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1111.jpg
All the parts laid out. Many new OEM parts and knick knacks.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1119.jpg
new spring rubber seats, top and bottom all around.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1120.jpg
Group N STi front tophaps.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1122.jpg
OEM rear tophats

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1121.jpg
Paranoid fabrications rear tophat extended bolts!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1125-1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1128.jpg
Spring compressors, assembling the front struts.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1129.jpg
To install the new extended lubs, the old ones had to be removed.... by way of grinding, torching and hammering. My shoulders still ache

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1131.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1133.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1134.jpg

Then i broke for a sammish...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1135.jpg

and it was delish!

Continuing...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1137.jpg
All banged out.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1139.jpg
Had to make some slight modifications to the 3/8ths rear spacers....

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1140.jpg
...order for them to fit...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1141.jpg
bingo!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1144.jpg
Rear was all ready for assembly

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1145.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1147.jpg

annddd.... Done!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1149.jpg

Part one is complete..... tommorow will be the install on the car.... hang tight for pics!

Ej6Mike

04-30-2011, 12:23 PM

Ladies and gents.... WRX suspension installed...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-6.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-3.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-3.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-5.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5ya.jpg

redlegacygt

04-30-2011, 03:46 PM

looks awesome man. Not too low but not riding high like before. Very nice!

92dxman

04-30-2011, 09:56 PM

That looks pretty badass. It is a shame the newer Foresters have gotten away from the awesome boxy shape they began with. A little off topic but are those Continental 4k Grand Prix tires on the orange bike in the garage background?

Rally Sport

05-01-2011, 01:28 AM

Looks AWESOME! good job man

tranceporter

05-01-2011, 11:14 AM

http://www.shoujoai.com/attach/5/561405/LesbianApproved.jpg

Ej6Mike

05-01-2011, 08:27 PM

looks awesome man. Not too low but not riding high like before. Very nice!

Thanks man, it couldnt be more perfect! I shed about 3-4 inches of ride height and still have a small wheel gap, so its subtle, not slammed. Did i mention its comfy as heck? my stock struts must been so blown... this thing rides smooth and quiet, yet cuts thru corners like a knife now. i love it!

That looks pretty badass. It is a shame the newer Foresters have gotten away from the awesome boxy shape they began with. A little off topic but are those Continental 4k Grand Prix tires on the orange bike in the garage background?

They may be , lol, im not sure. My dads a crazy biker.

Looks AWESOME! good job man

Thanks man! I appreciate the kind words.

I may be picking up a set of genuine borla UELs soon from a FS thread on this site. Its off a 99RS, so it will fit no prob. Whats not to like about more midrange/top end trq and a choppy-er boxer rumble? (mine has a rumble but its smooth and very subtle with stock headers)

RyanG

05-02-2011, 12:27 AM

Finally!! Looks good. Btw you arent getting an accessport or open source to work with that hog. Thats only for the dbw 2.5 na's.

ambitiousCK

05-02-2011, 12:37 AM

So much hard work going on in here and its really paying off, car looks great man keep up the good work!

Ej6Mike

05-02-2011, 12:17 PM

Finally!! Looks good. Btw you arent getting an accessport or open source to work with that hog. Thats only for the dbw 2.5 na's.

Thanks man! and darn :( Im dissappointed theres no tuning options available for this current ECU/Motor

So much hard work going on in here and its really paying off, car looks great man keep up the good work!

Thanks man! I shall!

Next up:

- UEL headers .... need to follow thru on that sale from a FS thread here.
- Ordered Tripple guage pod to replace my center dash compartment. ( i already have a vaccum / boost guage and AEM wideband from my civic build . just need to purchase a 3rd guage and an 02 bung for the wideband.
-Extra spacers for the rear.... it needs a half inch lift from where it sits now... still sags.
-Even longer extended studs for the rear tophats to accomodate the extra riser space.

I also installed a 6x9 alpine 2-way speaker in the trunk. The car has 2 tweeters and x4 6-inch round apline speakers which dont get (enough) bass. This put a little thump in my sound system which i am pleased with.

redlegacygt

05-03-2011, 09:21 PM

Thanks man! and darn :( Im dissappointed theres no tuning options available for this current ECU/Motor

Thanks man! I shall!

Next up:

- UEL headers .... need to follow thru on that sale from a FS thread here.
- Ordered Tripple guage pod to replace my center dash compartment. ( i already have a vaccum / boost guage and AEM wideband from my civic build . just need to purchase a 3rd guage and an 02 bung for the wideband.
-Extra spacers for the rear.... it needs a half inch lift from where it sits now... still sags.
-Even longer extended studs for the rear tophats to accomodate the extra riser space.

I also installed a 6x9 alpine 2-way speaker in the trunk. The car has 2 tweeters and x4 6-inch round apline speakers which dont get (enough) bass. This put a little thump in my sound system which i am pleased with.

Have you thought about the rallitek PP6 at all? i know some people have used it in the legacy world and really liked it. I dont think Rallitek sells them anymore, but i've seen a few pop up for sale on Nasioc... I think your only other options would be something like Greddy Emange...

Rally Sport

05-03-2011, 09:48 PM

How much did you find the borlas for? I think that's what i want to do sometime over the summer, get UEL headers and an sti exhaust. I heard good things about the speeddaddy borla reps on rs25 as long as you coat and wrap them so i'm looking into that, but i'd much rather have real borlas lol.

Ej6Mike

05-04-2011, 04:22 AM

fitftw

05-04-2011, 08:11 AM

that's a nice ride height. I want a daily Forester now lol

Rally Sport

05-04-2011, 05:33 PM

Im paying close to new price because they have little use. I had a horrific experience with an ebay brand that people swore by.... i guess i got a bad one in the bunch. My header is already uel, but this will free up some power, kill the droning at highway speeds and give it a really distinct rumble. I also got an extra 02 bung to have welded on for use of my aem wideband. Borlas are a guaranteed fit, which is why i choose them over ebays.

Yea i see what you mean. i have EL's and i guess it's better performance wise but my car's slow as it is so I might as well make it sound good :mrgreen:

Ej6Mike

05-05-2011, 11:54 AM

As far as computer tuning goes.... Anyone know if this may be worth it?

http://www.jegs.com/i/JET+Performance/561/67033/10002/-1

I have a feeling its garbage, but i figure its worth asking about incase anyone has ever had any positive/negative experience with it. As far as tuning goes, since theres no Cobb AP for my year, the only other available option is a Hydra setup for a measly $1,500.00 LOL. Spoke to a rep at boxer4racing breifly on it when i was calling about some new susp parts i was looking for. We joked about it, he said they make it for my motor (SOHC 2.5L) but it costs a bundle. Such a shame... i really want to get the best out of this thing.

On the upside...he said they DO make Cams of varying sorts for my motor (they are a vendor) , one in particular i was listening about, which was a mild upgrade over the stock cam, with yeilding power all over while retaining a smooth idle and low end. Im still debating it in my head tho...

Also on the mental checklist.... Hoodscoop. Just like the 2.5rs for venting purposes, i think it would look pretty sweet. Some may disagree, but after seeing SF5 after SF5 on forester.org with them, im starting to get the itch. I spend so much time doing suspension and bolt-ons, perhaps i give the outside some loving.

twizhimself

05-05-2011, 05:58 PM

Im paying close to new price because they have little use. I had a horrific experience with an ebay brand that people swore by.... i guess i got a bad one in the bunch. My header is already uel, but this will free up some power, kill the droning at highway speeds and give it a really distinct rumble. I also got an extra 02 bung to have welded on for use of my aem wideband. Borlas are a guaranteed fit, which is why i choose them over ebays.

dude...the ebay UEL borla knock offs have been said are less prone to crack at their weilds like the Borlas...i got em and they bolted right up! (i was VERY surprised) and for 100 bux i cant complain...i didnt wrap em or anything...screw it.

Ej6Mike

05-05-2011, 07:50 PM

dude...the ebay UEL borla knock offs have been said are less prone to crack at their weilds like the Borlas...i got em and they bolted right up! (i was VERY surprised) and for 100 bux i cant complain...i didnt wrap em or anything...screw it.

Twiz, i had an absolutely horrific experience with Ebay brand headers. They werent even close to fitting, infact off by inches. I dont think i could muster myself to try again after what i went thru trying to get them to fit, and failing.

Im going to wrap these bad boys up good when they arrive on my front door.

With yours, how much did the sound dramatically change?

redlegacygt

05-05-2011, 08:16 PM

twizhimself

05-06-2011, 03:03 PM

Twiz, i had an absolutely horrific experience with Ebay brand headers. They werent even close to fitting, infact off by inches. I dont think i could muster myself to try again after what i went thru trying to get them to fit, and failing.

Im going to wrap these bad boys up good when they arrive on my front door.

With yours, how much did the sound dramatically change?

thats weird...mine went right on...no problems..

its rumbly even with the stock cat back on! ...im currently waiting on a proper donut gasket (oRiley ordered me a 2.25" not a 2.5") and extra long exhaust hangers and then ill post videos of my setup

twizhimself

05-06-2011, 03:06 PM

seriously tho...if you looking for power at all..i'd give up on this DOHC 2.5...they're junk

i'd save up for a WRX 2.0L (or hybrid) or Sti 2.5L swap...

Ej6Mike

05-06-2011, 04:04 PM

seriously tho...if you looking for power at all..i'd give up on this DOHC 2.5...they're junk

i'd save up for a WRX 2.0L (or hybrid) or Sti 2.5L swap...

Mines a SOHC 2.5 lol. The 01/02s got a SOHC and a MAP sensor.
Im not looking to go crazy, just throwing ideas around. I plan to do a swap down the road anyway.

However.... In preperation for an STi swap down the road some... Im really contemplating having a WRX scoop put on (ill let a shop do it). I think it would look really awsome and serve for venting purposes like the RS's. Id get a hood with a scoop on it if i could find one.... damn near impossible to find the Forester GT (JDM 2.0l turbo 98-02 forester) hood with scoop already on it.

twizhimself

05-06-2011, 05:59 PM

tell me about it...i THOUGHT i had one...turned out to be a 99 (minor differences)!

SOHC huh? well in that case....save your money for the swap..lol

honestly tho, i do know a few fiends out here with some monster SOHC 2.5's (Still NA too) my buddy Jon's 93 L DESTROYS my WRX on 91 gas.....with that said...it cost him something like 3500-4000 to get it there....and he stipped the car down...so yea...that kind of money, youre in swap territory

as for mine...its getting swapped when this motor poops out again..

Ej6Mike

05-07-2011, 01:47 AM

Saving ..... but thinking of hoodscoop lol

Ej6Mike

05-08-2011, 07:40 PM

Inspiration!

Only difference? Much lower (prob coilovers) on some 18X9.5s volks , with the GT scooped hood , SF5 genuine grill and fully painted trim / bumpers.

http://www.6040.org/images/at_forester_garage_2.jpg

I want to strive for this.

Ej6Mike

05-12-2011, 02:40 PM

Some more goodies arrived!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1321-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1324-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1326.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1327.jpg

And just some randoms i had since its been lowered.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1300.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1278.jpg

Ej6Mike

05-13-2011, 05:28 PM

I ran the wires and wired up the sensors today. Just waiting on that oil sandwhich plate and then ill do an early oil change and install these puppies.

Picture of the guages during daytime running:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/2011-05-13_16-41-12_200.jpg

and when i flip to the parking lights, or headlights, their set to turn to this

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/2011-05-13_16-41-26_321.jpg

Ej6Mike

05-19-2011, 07:43 PM

Good news and bad news.

Good news?

UEL headers are in. they sound absolutely badass. My car growls like a turbo-back STi, and i will get a video up when i can. I got work for the next 3 days so that isnt going to happen in the immedeate future.

Bad news?

I cant run the oil pressure sensor. I got a sandwhich plate and installed it, but the oil filter doesnt clear the header by like a few Millimeters. I tried crushing the filter slightly to get it to clear, but it just wasnt working, so i gathered my losses and ill end up getting rid of the Oil pressure and replace the guage with something else. Oh well, it happens, what are you gonna do?

As for the water temp, i need an adapter for my radiator hose to run it. Ill get around to it.

Recently got some WRX wagon rear struts, awaiting install. Their a little taller than my WRX sedan struts so my but sag will be solved.

Yeah.

94503

05-19-2011, 07:58 PM

y not just put the line for the oil pressure in where the factory gauge is plugged in

Ej6Mike

05-19-2011, 08:23 PM

y not just put the line for the oil pressure in where the factory gauge is plugged in

Im not really sure even where that is. Id have to do some research. If that were the case, id tap right into it. Would that be giving off the same signal as my reader? That would make life pretty simple.. same for the water temp if thats possible too.

Ej6Mike

05-20-2011, 02:03 PM

Edit:

Did some research.... the oil pressure going to the ECU is an all or nothign reading. This means theres no reading inbetweeen ..just a yes or no signal for pressure. Oh well. Any other ideas?

Ej6Mike

05-22-2011, 10:27 AM

Solved!

I purchased an Oil Galley plug adapter. Apparently my block has 3 of these plugs, which require some work to get to, that are part of the oil ducts, one of which houses the stopck oil pressure sensor. This adapter allows for an oil pressure/temp tap to be installed. Woo! Im back in the game!

Ej6Mike

05-24-2011, 06:48 AM

New UELs are installed! Did a quick vid of the run.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCjlz9QnNtU

Turn up your speakers and hear the rumble!

Ej6Mike

05-24-2011, 05:59 PM

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-5.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-5.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-7.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5-5.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit6-4.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit7-5.jpg

Ej6Mike

05-25-2011, 04:13 PM

Alrighty... time for another project...

Im going to start piling parts up for the brake upgrade, in my case, WRX front brakes and OE sized rear disc conversion.

Ill start with the easiest....

For the front im going to need

-2002-2005 WRX front brake caliper brackets (i see them used on ebay for cheap!) (approx $50 to $80)
-Powerslot front WRX brake discs (approx $189)
-Probably hawk performance pads (approx $105)
-Stainless steel brakelines for 2002\2003 WRX (approx $50)

Go figure, roughly $400.00 and i will get a nice brake upgrade.

Ill prob spend about the same for the rears between getting
-Rear hubs/knuckles that support rear disc
-Aftermarket rear disc and pads
-OE rear caliper (Stainless line kit used here as well)
-E-brake cable specifically from a Forester S which has rear disc.

Ej6Mike

05-26-2011, 02:07 PM

So far...

Got used WRX front brake calipers with brackets for dirt cheap. All i need are the brackets.

Purchased 1" saggy buttspacers from paranoid fabrications. Rears still saggy and could use a 1/2inch lift over my currecnt spacers.

Ej6Mike

06-06-2011, 06:14 PM

parts parts parts.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1638-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1639.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1640.jpg

Also installed the new spacers which have evened out my car and there is no sag anymore. I will have to shoot it again sometime so the world may see.

Subie_sleeper

06-06-2011, 08:19 PM

LOVE THIS BUILD !!!!!!

vvvvvv....Just sayin'....vvvvvv

http://youtu.be/nSQiIJGnm3I

HAHAHAHAHA !!!!

Ej6Mike

06-06-2011, 09:26 PM

Would supercharging be worth it? Its an excuse to put a hoodscoop on... just sayin...

Rally Sport

06-06-2011, 11:58 PM

Our type of EJ's don't handle boost well. there's a ton of info. about it on NASIOC, it's be easier and cheaper to just swap it.

Ej6Mike

06-07-2011, 06:26 PM

Started off by getting all set up.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1644-1.jpg

This is the WRX caliper ( 1 of 2)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1645.jpg

These are the caliper brackets, which comparison are a little longer than my stock ( sorry, was too impatient to compare side by side with a ruler)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1647.jpg

After some painting, here was the result....
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1648.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1649.jpg

Here is the stock setup:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1650.jpg

Here is the stock setup.... off lol.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1653.jpg

Heres a side by side comparison of what the WRX powerslots look like next to the stock forester rotor.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1652.jpg
They are noticably thicker (width) wise as well as about an inch and a half larger, diameter wise.

Here it is with the new bracket installed. It clears it literally by maybe a milimeter to two. I nearly had a heart attack thinking it was too big lol.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1654.jpg

Caliper installed
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1655.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1657-1.jpg

Heres the stainless steel lines. I didnt take too many pics on the account that it was really messy. I dont want to get brakefluid on it.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1656-1.jpg
They werent nearly as hard as i had feared they would be. Retaining clips came right off, and unhooking the stockers from the car's hardlines was a sinch. I also expected fluid to come gushing out and to drain my resivour.... but instead, it dribbles out drip by drip, and by adding a pinch of fluid to the resivour every 5-10 minutes, the system never saw a bubble of air.

Drivers side, installed and artistic.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1665.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1666.jpg

Quick shot of the car after the test drive. Scuse its dirtyness.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1667.jpg

Wheels JUST clear it, lol ( big worry on my mind after the fact that i found the bracket cleared it by millimeters)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1668.jpg

Result?
Night and day difference!

The pedal has become very sensitive, and the slightest tap sends the front end downward. I tested out a few panic stops ( quick braking from cruising speed) and found that although it slowed down significantly quicker with a really firm pedal feel, i will REALLY benefit once i convert the rears to Legacy GT discs and even out the braking load. Im ahead of the game already with stainless steel lines all set to go for the rears.

I still need:

-98-02 forester/imprezza w/ rear disc Prop valve (junkyards sell these cheap)
-98-02 forester/imprezza/legacy/OB rear hubs that support rear disc (junkyards sell these cheap)
-Up to 2004 Legacy GT rear calipers/brackets
-Aftermarket (prob powerslot again) Rotors with matching Hawk pads.
- All set on the lines with my Technica SS ones.
-98-02 Forester specific (rear disc) Emergency brake cables (exterior)

And i think thats all i can think of for now. Im gonna get some good brake fluid in the mix there too once all is said and done.

Also, i removed my Aux (rally lol) lights for the time being. I plan to fabricate a new and functional front guard that can utilize larger lights.

Ej6Mike

06-12-2011, 08:30 PM

New seats much?

2002 WRX seats.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1690.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1691.jpg

Ej6Mike

06-16-2011, 05:03 PM

Updates:

-Rear disc conversion en-route in the mail, thanks to a friend from many states away.
-About to order same setup for rear brakes, as are in the fronts. (powerslot with Hawk pads)
-Repainted my wheels BBS gold ( new layer of base and re-cleared)
-Installed Hella Supertones

Took some pics too

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-8.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-6.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-6.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-8.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5-6.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1708-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_1715.jpg

Ej6Mike

06-27-2011, 11:58 PM

I got a lightweight Crank pulley on the way. Spent much time researching them and i came to the conclusion that they are worth the money.

jesse096

06-28-2011, 12:39 AM

The Fozzy is looking good! Plan on STi swapping it in the future? Sorry if it's been discussed...

-Jesse

Ej6Mike

06-28-2011, 09:27 PM

The Fozzy is looking good! Plan on STi swapping it in the future? Sorry if it's been discussed...

-Jesse

Ive debated it many times with friends and in my head.

I found that it could be done for around $7k ... but i love this car as a daily and for its ability to achieve ~30mpgs Highway, and still pulls decently well for N/A

Once i get a place with a garage, ill look to pickup any 02-07 impreza/WRX and go to town on that with parts and swap(s).

For now, im just giving the thing some fun and easy Mods, the most recent of which is a lightened crank pulley.

Come to think of it though.. the car is getting a good amount of WRX factory/aftermarket parts. Im in the process of piecing togather the parts i need for the rear WRX disc conversion over my stock drums.

Or i could scratch it all, sell it and buy a 2011 WRX and call it a day. But i dont like the idea of one as a daily for my long commute to work. That distance is one reason why i opt to not STi swap it in the near future, at least as of yet. I want another Daily if i do.

jesse096

06-29-2011, 01:23 AM

Gotcha, car still looks sweet either way!

-Jesse

Ej6Mike

07-06-2011, 11:37 PM

Just installed some Tanabe GF210s ... bring her down a little lower.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z1-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z2-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z4-2.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z3-2.jpg

Overall, their nice. Their progressive, so for highway cruising and small bumps, it actually feels quieter and smoother. Theres less Feedback in the steering wheel it seems. However, like any aftermarket spring, they are a little bumpy when it comes to poorly paved roads, speed bumps and big potholes. That is to be expected though when it comes to lowering the car. Oerall their nice because they are not harsh, and the car feels much more agile and pinned to the road.

Rally Sport

07-07-2011, 09:39 AM

that drop looks really good, perfect height for a fozzie.

Ej6Mike

07-07-2011, 01:54 PM

thanks man!

More goodies!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z5-3.jpg

Ej6Mike

07-08-2011, 05:56 PM

Installed!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/z6-2.jpg

Install was straight forward. Its a little time consuming disassembling the belts and radiator fans, but its not hard. I dont have a working torque-wrench, so i tightened it as close as i could to the factory spec of 94-ft/lbs. I used to work as a tech at a dealer for awhile, and dealt allot with torquing bolts or lugs to 85-100 ft/lbs and i easily remember the body motion and stregnth exertion which it took me to do so...., so im sure im close, if not, a little over just to be safe.

First impression:

- Car DOES rev a bit easier and faster, noticable from the first crank and startup.
- car starts smoother
- Revs drop a little quicker between gears
- car's Pickup is noticably more responsive and quicker throttle response when gunning it.
- Car feels faster in the low end. Makes sense when you shave rotational mass off, similiar to a lightweight flywheel... but in this case, not so drastic.

Overall im pleased with the purchase. very simple go-fast Mod that doesnt break the bank. Oh, and buy 2 new belts when you do the job... its always good to start fresh!

R_Rambo

07-08-2011, 07:46 PM

Looking good! LCP always seems to be something worthwhile

Subie_sleeper

07-08-2011, 09:39 PM

I just got caught up on your build.

VERY NICE.

Ej6Mike

07-08-2011, 11:13 PM

Looking good! LCP always seems to be something worthwhile

Thanks man! whats LCP stand for? lol

I just got caught up on your build.

VERY NICE.

Thanks rob! I just got her aligned today at a performance susp/exhaust shop i usually goto. With the adjustment bolts, they were able to get her DEAD even on camber/caster and properly aligned. Im very happy to say the least.

So whats up next?

I got an SPT axleback section coming from an 04 STi. Im gonna polish it up and make it shine real nice, and have it installed, along with a large (long) resonator in the midpipe to kill the raspyness. 2.5" straightpipe to the muffler tends to be a bit raspy. The SPT muffler should give it some more rumble. Stock STi muffler kills the beautiful rumble my Borla headers make.

Next i want to convert to rear disc. I had a set of 2001 Legacy GT rear hubs and calipers i bought from an online junkyard, but that was a gamble i lost... it happens. The backing plates were rusted beyond belief and one bent, the calipers were siezed and the wheel bearings were toast. Not to mention an axle head was still stuck in one. A little discouraging because i had to toss them (every shop i had examine them said it wouldn tbe worth rebuilding them, their too old) , so i made back a few bucks bringing them to a junkyard.
Now im still on the hunt for a working set that hasnt been sitting for years in a yard.

After those... I may take on an interior comfort project. I read up on an interesting project on forester.org with the use of a car-specific sound deadening material. This project was started in the hopes to acheive less road noise. By removing the entire interior (door panels, carpet, roof lining) this individual covered the entire inside frameworks of the car with this stick-on material that absorbs sound. It only took about 12lbs worth to cover the entire thing. Put it all back togather ( whole day project) and observed a decrease of like 14dB in volume from the starting noise level ( he actually measured with a dB meter). I think this project may be worth my time because of all the hardened bushings and inserts, ect, that i have installed that have increased noise/harshness and vibrations.

Also... im in desperate need of a photoshoot of my car. I need to set aside some time to do that.

Rally Sport

07-09-2011, 12:00 AM

You know i'm in love with your fozzie, it's awesome man. Keep up the modding!

R_Rambo

07-09-2011, 08:09 PM

ha sorry Lightweight Crank Pulley!

Ej6Mike

07-10-2011, 12:00 AM

ahh makes sense!

Thanks for the kind words...

In the meantime.... a quick shoot of the new stance..

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-9.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-8.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-11.jpg

Did i ever mention i recently smoked the tails myself?

Ej6Mike

07-10-2011, 08:42 PM

Also have a red Throttlebody spacer headed my way too in the mail, as well as a brake master cyl/ brace.

Ej6Mike

07-11-2011, 07:46 PM

Brake master cyl brace installed.... and woweeee does it make a difference for pedal feel when getting hard on the brakes.

Ej6Mike

07-14-2011, 09:00 PM

i installed a Throttlebody spacer.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2378.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2379.jpg

Kit came with bolts, gaskets, the spacer, and a throttle cable re-positioning mount.

So first things first.... Installed the newer throttle cable bracket.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2373-1.jpg

Then i unbolted the throttle body
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2374-1.jpg

Mocked it up, got the gaskets straight and bolted it down firmly.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2383.jpg

Ran into a little issue.... of of the vaccum hoses didnt reach now, with the TB being extened away.

So i had to extened the hose that runs from here:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2375-1.jpg

To here:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2376-1.jpg

I did this by way of a small coupler and same sized hose.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2377.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2382.jpg

all bolted up

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2386.jpg

Re-installation of box:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2391-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2389.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2388.jpg

And for those who have requested... pic of the LW crankpulley in its place (hard to get shot)

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2385-1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2392.jpg

Overall... it makes the intake sound a bit deeper and throaty-er (spelling?) and def feels like it pulls harder from mid to top end.

There were things that made this job difficult. For one, you DONT have a whole of of wiggle room. The TB has lots of wiring and hoses and plugs coming on and off it... this makes it VERY annoying to position properly. Took me 20 minutes-worth of trys to get it to sit correctly without the gaskets losing position. Its alsovery hard to get the stock box back in properly. It basically sits flush against my firewall now. It would have been easier with a SRI/CAI probably, but even that would require modifying the intake tube end.

I also had to modify/bend the box supports because its position was changed, so i had to make some extenension plates for one of the rear mounts (D/S).

I have yet to test it out for lengths of time, but it sure does feel nice.

Subie_sleeper

07-15-2011, 04:46 PM

NICE !!!

How much difference did it make?

Ej6Mike

07-15-2011, 04:51 PM

NICE !!!

How much difference did it make?

Pretty decent difference. Coupled with the recent install of my lightweight crank pulley, it really puts ya back in the seat when laying on the throttle, so the response and low end torque has definatley improved.

Next step?

Get this SPT axleback and Borla glasspack resonator put in for a nice smooth rumble over my stock STi axleback which is a little on the raspy side with no rez in the midpipe.

Subie_sleeper

07-15-2011, 05:39 PM

Good plan. :)

Ej6Mike

07-19-2011, 08:10 PM

a few updated pics shot in the dusklight.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-12.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-10.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-9.jpg

Ej6Mike

07-25-2011, 12:00 PM

Lookee lookeee what else arived!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/zedit1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/zedit2.jpg

Gonna paint match them AND all the plastic bumpers/trim sometime this week with plastic/trim-specific paint. Ive choosen flat black for everything.

Subie_sleeper

07-25-2011, 12:36 PM

Good deal. Get it painted ASAP !!!

Rally Sport

07-25-2011, 01:34 PM

niice! in for pics.

Ej6Mike

07-28-2011, 07:27 PM

Sooo... i spent the (entire) day today painting the trim/bumpers and lip. It was very involved and labor intensive, but my hard work paid off with something that looks absolutely amazing..... so who likes pictures?

Started by prepping the car...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2412.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2413.jpg

Painting the lips (yes, its split in 2)

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2411.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2410.jpg

They were a pain to sand down and do.

I dont really have pics from when i was painting... was too sweat and too into it to grab my camera. So to the dissapointment of some who like when i take step by step pics.... i apologize and this will just have to do...

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-13.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-11.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-10.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-10.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit5-8.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit6-6.jpg

Car came out great. It took ALLOT of paint to my surprise. i ended up using 8 whole (yes whole) cans of Rustoleum (flat black) trim and bumper paint. I found that the trick to make it nice was to use it very thorough and liberally...in other words.... use allot lol.

- I started by sanding down a few rough spots with 400-grit sand paper.
- I then took an orbital sand and sanded down every bumper/trim surface with 600 frit sandpaper.
- I then wet sanded all the bumpers down with 1200 grit sandpaper... this made it nice and smooth.
- I then prepped all the surfaces with denatured alcohol and paper towels. Wiped everything multiple times until it was clean and ready for paint.
- Taped up the rest of what needed to be taped.

- Began painting!

At first it came out a little on the wispy side, but i then tried applying a second coat, nice and thick too ( not too thick, being careful to move quickly and disperese as much as i could over a broad area). After 2 copious coats, the above pictures were the result. A nice smooth ( semi shiny) flat back look.

Heres a closeup

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2423-2.jpg

In my honest opinion.... it was a heck of allot of work, but to me it seems to pay off... Now i wonder how long it will hold up considering i do allot of highway travel and we get fairly harsh winters in NJ ( the last 2 years we have).

And BTW guys.... New JDM hood with STi scoop comes early next week and then goes right to the bodyshop for paint. Take a guess as to which direction i am taking?

ourbloodykisses

07-28-2011, 09:29 PM

looks pretty good man

RyanG

07-28-2011, 11:17 PM

Wow that tbs brings back some serious oldschool memories. I remember when we came out with version 1 back in 03 then v2 a few years later. Did you get it from Jake or Adam?

Rally Sport

07-28-2011, 11:41 PM

wow, it looks so good. I'll say it again, i'm in love with your fozzie, man.

Ej6Mike

07-29-2011, 08:27 AM

looks pretty good man

Thanks jake!

Wow that tbs brings back some serious oldschool memories. I remember when we came out with version 1 back in 03 then v2 a few years later. Did you get it from Jake or Adam?

Neither.... i got it off a guy from canada that had it on a FS thread on forester.org. I hopped on it the second it appeared and he shipped it ASAP.

Also... You have a PM waiting in you inbox... i want to consult your services and wisdom (now and) down the road for a large project for this car. I have allot of cash saving to do.

wow, it looks so good. I'll say it again, i'm in love with your fozzie, man.

thanks man! She has come quite a ways, but im not done yet.... JDM hood with STi scoop arrives next week, and goes right to the bodyshop for paint (just the hood, lol) .... you can only guess what that must mean, lol.

Ej6Mike

08-01-2011, 04:12 PM

Some more goodies arrived!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/215137_10150739502175562_902350561_19932974_713914 9_n.jpg

STi scoop. just mocked it up on my stock hood... its sitting half an inch higher than it would otherwise because of the mounting tabs. The jdm SF% hood has an indentation for mounting around its air hole.
Waiting on the JDM hood to come, then its off to the bodyshop!

So i spoke to a gentlemen from a local place called Akuma Motorosports. They had a recent opening BBQ/meet. I talked to a tech and got to discuss prices and involvment for a swap. Hands down i am sold, and its now up to me to start compiling parts.

Ej6Mike

08-01-2011, 11:19 PM

For sale: My complete WRX suspension setup.

Got some BC BR coilovers coming soon!

Ej6Mike

08-02-2011, 11:49 PM

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6004324998_68717b9af6_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/6004324818_2f61efd010_b.jpg

Just a few quickie shots!

Ej6Mike

08-11-2011, 06:04 PM

So, i took an entire day, 12 hours, and finished the rest of the car with sound deadening material *fatmat* from a project i started last week . Holy moly what a workout. I am so sore from crouching and kneeling the entire day. But it was worth it!

some pics.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2476.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2478.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2481.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2480.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2485.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2486.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2487-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2488.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2489.jpg

Covered it all back up, re-installed everything and DONE

Upon test driving, first thing i found that there was MUCH less N/H/V that i felt before from solid motor mounts, pitch stop and crossmember/diff bushings. Also my audio system sounds clearer when driving, and theres much less road noise. Bumps have become a light tuhump rather than a THUD. My exhaust note is much more distinguishable from inside with a drastic cut of drone. Overall, it was so worth it and i highly reccomend it!

Also... this puppy arrived and is ready for paint on monday! awwwww yeahh!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2490.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2491.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2492.jpg

Got a JDM SF grill coming here tommorow as well as my BC BR coilovers. Im on a roll here!

Subie_sleeper

08-11-2011, 06:32 PM

Congrats on the completion !!!

I hope that your eventual swap goes just as smoothly. :wink:

J240

08-11-2011, 06:57 PM

Can't wait to see that hood installed. Has the shop you talked to ever done a swap on a subaru.

Ej6Mike

08-11-2011, 07:07 PM

Can't wait to see that hood installed. Has the shop you talked to ever done a swap on a subaru.

The guy im going to have do my swap (jake at AZP installs) daily drives a 2.5RS with STi swap. So he knows his stuff, so i feel confident. Ive also enlisted the help of a friends friend who doesnt go on forums much, who is a subaru tech and daily drives his beastly 450+ hp Bugeye with a hybrid built motor and trans. Ive had allot of suggestions to come my way, but he knows his stuff and has offered to help me build a good and reliable motor.

Also Thanks rob!

As of right now... im looking to find any 2003-2005 Forestest XT 2.5 bottom end and heads... and then im gonna build the f*** out of it and go Blouche 18G. Pair it with a 6spd STi tranny and a few other goodies ill need, and let the shop(s) do the rest, such as merge harnesses, drop motor, ect ect.

Its just a matter of compiling parts now. First and formost... a 2.5 block.

FYi... ive decided to go forester XT 2.5 and not STi 2.5 because the STi manifold is drive by wire... and thats one less thing to have to swap... same displacment though, and a regualr intake manifold that accomodates my regualr throttle cable.

ketchup!

08-11-2011, 07:10 PM

just needs some awesome wheels and this thing will be awesome!

RyanG

08-11-2011, 07:30 PM

FYi... ive decided to go forester XT 2.5 and not STi 2.5 because the STi manifold is drive by wire... and thats one less thing to have to swap... same displacment though, and a regualr intake manifold that accomodates my regualr throttle cable.

the FXT manifold is still a DBW.

ALL 2.5L turbo motors are all DBW.

I have a 2.5 bottom end that needs to be rebuilt if you are interested. :)

unclelewiewrx

08-11-2011, 07:36 PM

Nice car, coming out really clean. I've seen you driving around (down Newman Springs Rd).

Is that your single speed lefty in the background?

J240

08-11-2011, 07:52 PM

Mike, got an 07 sti block with a bad rod bearing. Has 47k on it perfect for a build. A wrx manifold(or FXT) will bolt onto an sti motor.

Ej6Mike

08-11-2011, 08:15 PM

Thanks man, it does need wheels... some fat wide ones too, now that i got BC coilovers to install... leaves more room

the FXT manifold is still a DBW.

ALL 2.5L turbo motors are all DBW.

I have a 2.5 bottom end that needs to be rebuilt if you are interested. :)

I may be interested... I want a 2.5 bottom end. Thanks for the little lesson there though... i was not aware of this. Can i still run the regular throttle cable if i do WRX heads/WRX mani?

Nice car, coming out really clean. I've seen you driving around (down Newman Springs Rd).

Is that your single speed lefty in the background?

Yes it is! Holy cow man, where are you from? Your the most local TST guy ive ever had comment yet haha. Have i seen your car before?

Mike, got an 07 sti block with a bad rod bearing. Has 47k on it perfect for a build. A wrx manifold(or FXT) will bolt onto an sti motor.

I replied sir!

unclelewiewrx

08-11-2011, 10:15 PM

Ej6Mike

08-12-2011, 10:27 AM

I think we may have met once. At an autox? I used to have an 06 STi, I also had a wrb 04 wrx. Now I have an 09 Legacy GT. Your buddies with Paul S.? (I don't wanna write last names on a public forum).

I also mountain bike a lot, mostly at Hartshorne/Allaire/6mile.

Oh wow.. well i havent autocrossed the car yet... but i do hang out with paul and his STi.

i love mountain biking as well. Sheesh, we gotta set up a meetup, my dads a biking fanatic and i got often with him to those place, though im closer to Thompson park and bike there more often.

unclelewiewrx

08-12-2011, 05:33 PM

Oh wow.. well i havent autocrossed the car yet... but i do hang out with paul and his STi.

i love mountain biking as well. Sheesh, we gotta set up a meetup, my dads a biking fanatic and i got often with him to those place, though im closer to Thompson park and bike there more often.

Whenever you wanna meet up lemme know. Sunday I am free in the morning I live in Fair Haven. I've never rode at Thompson park, I really like Hartshorne woods for some reason.

Ej6Mike

08-12-2011, 07:47 PM

Ill have to see.. what time do you usually go?

also....

New grill installed, and new coilovers awaiting install next week when im off! (shift work)

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit1-15.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit2-13.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit3-12.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/aedit4-11.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2498.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2499.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2500-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2501.jpg

Cant wait to install these puppies!

Ej6Mike

08-16-2011, 04:15 AM

New hood and scoop has been dropped at the bodyshop. Getting painted :-p

caldwell

08-17-2011, 01:34 AM

I cant wait to see this dropped !, and the grille looks great

I def like checking in on this build for sure !

Ej6Mike

08-17-2011, 02:35 AM

I cant wait to see this dropped !, and the grille looks great

I def like checking in on this build for sure !

Thanks man!

I dont think im going to go any lower just yet... its a tough enough ride to work as it is , on really bad backroads. So for now, its keeping its current height.

Ej6Mike

08-18-2011, 10:43 AM

So, little update.
-Hoods still at the shop, probably drying/setting. It was painted yesterday so i should be getting a call soon.

-Coilovers are in, and ho-lee crap, what a night and day difference. Ride is MUCH smoother and quiet, close to the stock WRX setup i had, and thats on its softest settings. Its a firm but quiet ride too, very little give, but not so much so that its like on rails. The progressive springs were starting to get annoying for my commute. Spent all day dialing the right ride height in (basically same as it was on WRX struts/tanabe lowering springs, approx 26.5 inches from fender to ground on all 4 wheels, with the exception that i dial it to about 26.25 inches in the front, for a slight angle (quarter of an inch) .

I havent experimented yet with changing it up... its 30-way adjustable ... i test drove them on the softest (so smooth and quiet!) and i bumped the clickers up to 6 all around for some driving later on. Im going to play around tommorow and see what other combos i can make for front and rear for everyday handling.

Without further ado, a few pics during the install today.

Fronts first... their easy.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2504.jpg

current VS coilover.... there IS a height difference in them, but the coilover has very little give (compression) when under load, vs the stock wrx/tanabe setup to which the top and bottom hats become about 4 inches apart under load. The coilover has about 8 inches of strut travel (measured) when under load. BIG difference as far as quality of the ride goes.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2508.jpg

some calculations lol
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2507.jpg

Install was a breeze. They were so short, and not really that heavy. (stockers were bulky)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2510.jpg

camber adjustment plate
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2509-1.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2511.jpg

Took pics to be able to dial in the lower camber adjustment bolt orientation for re-installation

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2512.jpg

Did the rears... they went quicker than the fronts.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2515.jpg

waiting on a buy pending of a rear disc setup! No worries.. those rear drums will be history soon.

Again, rear stockers vs Coilovers
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2517.jpg

All said and done:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/IMG_2518.jpg

I didnt want to take too many pics of the car, for a few reasons, the main ones being that i was really tired and dirty, the car was the exact same stance/height as before, and most of all, its filthy and covered in dust/pollen/dirt from crazy amounts of storms and rains we have been having. Instead of washing them off the car, its washing them onto the car.

Overall im so very pleased! They were completely worth the money, and my car feels like a totally different vehicle now. Stiff, but smooth and refined with no bodyroll whatsoever, even on the softest dampening setting. Its firm over bumps, but nowhere near harsh. Def just added to the fun factor.

DC2-Chris

08-18-2011, 02:47 PM

looks great. glad you are happy with the coils, good choice

nissamax

08-18-2011, 03:05 PM

max them bitches go out go as low as you can

Ej6Mike

08-18-2011, 03:31 PM

looks great. glad you are happy with the coils, good choice

Thanks man! They feel awsome! i have them set on just 6 (all around) clicks out of 30 on the dampening, and it feels incredible! So responsive and it feels like it wants to oversteer now... perhaps i need to adjust the rears differently.

max them bitches go out go as low as you can

hahaha, perhaps sometime for ****s and giggles i will, but for now, its staying as is until i get another alignment.

And now the hood is installed.... its the best paintjob ive ever seen in my life.. literally ... my factory paint has more orange peel... thats how smooth and nice it is!

excuse the cell pics for now, ill snap some good ones at another time when i wash this puppy up and go out for a small shoot.

Right back from the shop!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/299018_10150763189310562_902350561_20245807_216045 4_n.jpg

Installed:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/293148_10150763364480562_902350561_20247734_724425 1_n.jpg

was a breeze to install, its fairly light (no Carbon fiber though?) and was a sinch to lineup with a friends helping hand. i used LOTS of microfiber cloths to cover the lower window area and allow it to rest.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l294/Sk8nrocker23/zz.jpg

all done!

Now monday, im picking up (hopefully) an STi bottom end and WRX heads.

Cant stop... wont stop....