Go Mifune's '97 L Wagon

[Go Mifune]

Track day car and you know, going to Costco


https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/11/swF0oylh-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/11/rwWKjU5h-1.jpg

With street shoes - BBS RKs
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/11/CIsueGeh-2.jpg

June, 2017 at High Plains Raceway, Colorado - Kosei K5-Rs
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/11/CysZTZJhjpg2-2.jpg


Current Mods:

Interior:
Corbeau FX1 Pro seats and brackets
Product Innovations delrin shift knob
Door card fabric matching seats
Sparco Reflex pedal set
Broadway 300mm convex rear view mirror
STi floor mats
Rear seat and seatbelt delete
Center console delete
Floor and firewall insulation removal
Lightweight carpet
Cargo area stuff delete
Radio delete
Scangauge II
Lap timers: Garmin Virb Elite camera with GPS, i-Phone with Trackaddict app.
2- SJ Cam SJ6 Legend cameras
1- DBpower EX5000 camera
1- Akaso EK7000 camera


Exterior:
OEM rear spoiler
Emblem delete
Pinstripe delete
Roof rack delete
Home Depot mesh grill
Rear wiper delete

Suspension:
Feal 441 coilovers with Swift springs 7k/4k
Whiteline KCA313 front roll center/bumpsteer correction kit
Whiteline W51709A front control arm front bushing
Whiteline ALK KCA319M motorsport
22mm Whiteline adjustable rear sway bar
Impreza upgraded SB mount
21mm Subaru front sway bar #20401AE03A
Energy suspension FSB bushings
Whiteline endlinks- front KLC30 & rear KLC26
Ebay rear strut tower bar
Whiteline front strut tower bar
Kartboy rear subframe lockdown bolts
Whiteline KSR200 steering rack bushings
Whiteline KTA108 adjustable rear control arms
Turn in Concepts TIC 1001-02-0018 rear trailing arm bushing - Race
Turn in Concepts TIC 1001-02-0012 front trailing arm bushing - Race
Whiteline KSB751 rear differential support bushings

Transmission
2003 WRX shifter assembly
Kartboy short shifter #KB-002
Kartboy shifter bushings #KB-003
Kartboy rear shifter bushing #KB-003 rear
Subaru shifter knuckle #35047AC030
Kartboy transmission bushings #KB-025
Group N transmission mount - Subaru D1010FE020

Brakes:
2004 Legacy GT front and rear brakes-Rears thanks to Nepbug
GrimmSpeed master cylinder brace Part # 091016
G2 orange caliper paint
EBC Bluestuff pads DP51661NDX (front) and DP51293NDX (rear) replacing EBC Yellowstuff
Stop Tech slotted rotors
Goodridge G Stop brake lines #24212
Redline RL-600 fluid
New EBC Bluestuff front & rear pads - June 2021

Wheels and tires:
Street: BBS RK 17x7 (about 17.5 pounds) with Sumitomo HTR ZIII 215/45/17 (22 pounds)
Track: Kosei K5-R 17x8 +48 (16.3 pounds) with Kumho V700 (50 TW) 215/40/17 (18.5 pounds) shaved R-comp tires


Engine compartment:
Inferno Fabrications EL headers
1996 EJ22 intake
Full synth oil- Rotella T6 5w-40
Fumoto F-105 oil drain valve
Cruise control delete
Deka ETX-12 battery 9.8 lbs on bathroom scale
A/C delete
Torque Solutions solid pitch stop mount - part# TS-SU-011SB

Other
Back up lamp switch 32005AA053
Borla ss cat back-Thanks to Nepbug
Power steering delete- De-powered rack by CVJ Axle, Denver

To be installed:



Thought someone might find this useful. Weights checked on a (decent) bathroom scale so not exact but very close when the car was corner balanced a couple years ago.
Original curb weight 3005

Weight added
17” wheels and tires +8 lbs From 185/70/14 on14x5.5 steel to 215/40/17 on 17x8 alloy
2004 Legacy GT brakes +25 lbs
F. & R. strut braces +7 lbs
F. & R. sway bars +9 lbs Front: 19mm OEM to 21mm Rear: 15mm OEM to 22mm adjustable
OEM rear spoiler +6 lbs
Cameras +1.5 lbs
Grimmspeed MCB +1 lb
Whiteline lateral links +5 lbs
Scooped hood +3.5 lbs.
Total adds +66 lbs

Weight deducted
Spare tire -29 lbs (on track only)
Jack -5 lbs (on track only)
Jack tools -3.5 lbs (on track only)
Racing seats -9 lbs Seats are 19 lbs. each but brackets are heavy.
Radio & cup holder -5 lbs EJs make the best music!
F. & R. Floor mats -6 lbs
Carpet & cargo brackets -28.5 lbs
R. seat, brackets & belts -57.5 lbs
Center console -4.5 lbs
Soundproofing -32 lbs
R. seat heat vents -1.5 lbs
R. brake backing plates -1. lbs
OEM grill -.5 lbs
Roof rack -10 lbs
Rear mud flaps -1.5 lbs
R. wiper -3.5 lbs
Coilovers -38 lbs
1996 intake -4 lbs
Cruise control -3 lbs
Low washer fluid -4 lbs Leaving more than enough for a track day.
Borla catback ? My bad! -5 lbs forgot to weigh but at least 5 pounds
Deka ETX12 battery -21 lbs
Glovebox door and bracket -4.5 lbs (track only)
Power steering delete -7.5 lbs
Alternator cover -.5 lbs
Headers -1 lb
Front brake shield delete -1 lb
A/C delete -24 lbs
Kumho R-comp tires -9 lbs shaved 50 TW tires (track only)
Pass. seat delete -27 lbs weight of seat and brackets (track only)
Pass. seatbelts -3 lbs (track only)
Rear trim delete -23 lbs (track only) all lower cargo plastic panels and trim plus rear door panels and trim incl. rear speakers
Tailgate plastic panel -3 lbs
Front bumper beam delete -10 (track only)
Total deducted - 386.5 lbs

Overall weight reduction -304.5 lbs from stock

January 2021 - car should weigh about 2684.5 with full tank and all reductions above.

[nepbug]

subscribed, I was just wondering about this car the other day. Love the shaved roof rack.

What do those wheels weigh?

Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk

[kcowles]

Just curious, how did you plug up the roof rack to protect from rain water? Did you put threaded bolts in the holes?
Wagon looks great! I have the same color and year :)

[Go Mifune]

The center rails I left alone. The side rail delete was from someone here but can't remember who. Basically just filled the threaded holes with silicone and siliconed on white plastic caps, probably from Home Depot. Keeping the rails if they're needed later on. Looks good from a distance but up close, not so much.

Nick, the RKs about 17.5 pounds. The SSRs weighed on a postal scale came to 13 lbs. 2 oz.

I'm having trouble putting up more pics but hopefully more to come.

Also picked up a decent rear spoiler today for $25. Does need paint.

[Go Mifune]

OK. Here are the SSRs which looked horrible when I picked them up but it was only surface corrosion. This one is halfway to fixed
891

And an interior shot.
892
This was before I replaced the carpet. Removing the center console leaves holes.

[Strykr]

Im kinda confused, I noticed the SSR say 4x100, 4x114.3, 5x100. Thats the first time I've ever noticed that on those rims before and find it odd because usually only the size used is shown not all available lol

Love the seats though!

[nepbug]

Like the stats on those SSRs if you decide to get rid of them give me a call.

[Go Mifune]

I'd never seen that either on a wheel. The c-list ad said 5x100 but the first thing I noticed in the picture was 4x100 so I got a little sad. Then saw 5x100 and was like what? It's all good. Is it some Japanese law having to put weight rating right on the front of the rim? I don't know.

Mephitic-er....Nepbug, spellcheck changed your handle to mephitic? Anyway, that's tempting but if I ever do get out to High Plains Raceway, I'm going to need every trick in the book to avoid being run over. By July my ego should be completely crushed and I'll call you:-)

[Go Mifune]

Legacy sitting at 2880 pounds with a full tank- according to Cat Scale- although my bathroom scale seems to bear this out. My goal is 2800 even. Maybe 2806 because spoiler.

For suspension, I'm on blown struts right now so probably WRX take offs with Koni inserts and perhaps RCE wagon springs. That's the smart option. On the other hand, this is just a summer car and coilovers are calling to me. Can't push the budget too far so Feal 441s. Have read all the arguments and can't decide.

[nepbug]

By July my ego should be completely crushed and I'll call you:-)
Ha, that made me laugh.

If you end up needing done donor struts, I've got the ones off my 02 Impreza that will be available if I take the springs off. I was keeping them for a potential Koni insert upgrade myself, but I doubt I'll have the cash for that anytime in the next couple years unless I sell off some of my really fun bits.


Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk

[Go Mifune]

Nepbug, maybe we can do business again:-) Looking online, any '94 to 2007 Impreza strut will work for the front; Koni 8610-1351. For the rears they are split over three time periods.
'94 to '01 Koni rear 8610-1352
'02 to '03 Koni rear 8610-1408
'04 to '07 Koni rear 8610-1440
I'm guessing maybe perches and top hats are different but it must be more than that for the 3 Koni variations. I've been keeping watch for '04 to '07 wagon rears to avoid the dreaded saggy butt. Nothing so far.

Also would STi springs such as Swift Spec-Rs or RCE Super Sports be too low for proper handling or mess up something else . More interested in that than just looks.

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/12/DeQ7MV9l-1.jpg
Corbeau seats and WRX generic strut tower brace. All summer I drove with leaking struts and brakes that couldn't be applied properly till the machining on the new rotors was worn off. Reached that point just in time for snow season. Next year hopefully will be better.

[peugoby]

I really like the build so far! Nice & tidy with a good mix of performance upgrades and aesthetically pleasing mods. I love my SSR's on my BK. They're one of the most attractive wheels for these cars in my opinion. I'd only get rid of them for some TE-37's. How are those seats? Do you use the car daily? I need to get a Whiteline RSB so badly.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks Peugoby! You have great timing as I read your entire thread just yesterday. Kept going between your before and after photos and thinking "can't be the same car."

The seats are fantastic for keeping me in place but they have a bit of flex to them. Online reviews have mentioned this. It feels like a bolt is loose on small fast turns. Still, I love them! I think my wife secretly hates them. My '96 Outback is the DD. With only summer tires, this one will be driven maybe 400 miles over the winter. Since bought it's totaled 7k miles in 19 months but that included a 2400 mile road trip.

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2015/12/l9ZY398l-1.jpg

Kartboy front and rear shifter stay bushings and Sparco Reflex pedals.
The Sparcos are for more than just bling. It turns out that I have shortish legs which combined with my fixed back driver's seat leaves me too close to the steering wheel. I'm planning on making simple spacers and then attach the pedals to move me and the seat back where they belong. The other benefit is that I've been having to move the seat back one notch every time I get out of the car (due to the racing seat) and this should fix that. I think an inch or less will do it but it's around 10F outside so not today.

The bushings will have to wait till I have the TIC shifter knuckle and some warmer weather, which in Evercold Colorado is mid to late May.

[Tylerhartman]

Sweet build ;-) Can't wait to see how more hardcore this gets :D

[Go Mifune]

Hardcore you say? A small thing but did the rear wiper delete today. I'm keeping the parts so it's totally reversible in about half an hour. I won't do this on my Outback as that would just be silly but with the Legacy....race car.
Entire assembly weighs 3.5 pounds in case you want to know.
Thanks to Nepbug for the plug to fill the hole. It's Subaru part #86515AC000.
The only tools needed were 10mm and 22mm sockets and a flat blade screwdriver to pop off the interior panel to gain access.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/01/cFdKj9pl-1.jpg

One of these days I'm going to have to address the fact that my "race car" has about 90AWD horsepower.

[Go Mifune]

Sparco pedals are in for now but still working out details. The bolts are meant to go through the center of the Sparco pedals which is right where you can't put them due to the metal arm welded at the back of the factory pedals.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/01/U6URZAol-1.jpg

As mentioned before, spacers will help me reach the pedals like a big boy. I'm going to use hard rubber for the spacers although hardwood flooring samples worked great for the mockup. Thanks Home Depot!

[Go Mifune]

Got a Scangauge II for my birthday and installed it today. As suspected, my EJ22 is developing 3.4 horsepower.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/01/P99nMV7l-1.jpg

The wire runs past the steering column, securely zip tied under the dash and then out just above the hood release. It doesn't interfere with the function of the tilt wheel or the hood release.

[Gavin_XVI]

Nice!
I actually have the same rear strut brace in my Legacy right now and I also recently made a "Home Depot mesh grill" too.

1158

1159

[Muse]

You know, I didn't expect to see a difference when I put that same bar in my car, and I didn't really notice one until I took it back out again. The car felt rather sloppy after removal, even though I hadn't noticed it being particularly improved after initial install.

[Gavin_XVI]

I think that might be because it's really not that rigid of a strut brace, so the improvement probably isn't as good as a really sturdy brace. I actually noticed an improvement right away though, it made the struts much more responsive. I think I noticed quick because my struts are really old and need to be replaced, the brace just made it so they could work with what little energy they have left, haha.

[Go Mifune]

And my struts are flat dead. I finally have enough saved up for suspension. Just need to pull the trigger. Will be doing the rear subframe lockdown bolts at the same time.

[Gavin_XVI]

Sweet! What suspension are you planning to get?
Did something go wrong with the subframe bolts?

[Go Mifune]

The subframe/crossmember lockdown bolt is a mod to keep the rear crossmember from squirming around during cornering. Here's a DIY http://www.scoobymods.com/showthread.php/diy-rear-subframe-lockdown-bolts-13527.html
You can buy the bolts as a kit from Whiteline or Kartboy. They don't show the bolts as fitting our cars-BD,BG,BK- but I've been told that yes they do fit. Whichever way you go, read all of the posts as doing it wrong will give you a very bad day.

For suspension, I've been looking at Feal 441 coilovers. Nasioc has a 44 page thread on them where people at first have problems with them but it almost always turns out to have been an installation problem.
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2296352
They can be bought for $1350 and include swift springs. They will build them so that they have the correct GC Impreza front top hats and brake line brackets but with GD rear top hats. At least that's what I think will work. I'm no mechanic and a question about it to the group went unanswered.

The other possibility would be 2004 to 2007 WRX Wagon takeoff struts modified for Koni strut inserts, Group N top hats and RCE wagon springs. Many people say this is a better solution for ride, handling and reliability. Buying all the pieces for this is actually more expensive than the coil overs. Even with the Koni sale which should start in March, it's about $1800 if I get the struts powder coated.

The third option is just putting on the WRX takeoff struts with maybe STi springs and hope the struts aren't already blown. This is the cheap option as I'm sorta, kinda unemployed due to a medical condition.

The reason I'm leaning towards the Feals is that they can be adjusted for height, they weigh less (I weigh every part that comes off my car; it's a sickness) and I'm mentally 12 years old, so they're cool.

[Gavin_XVI]

Oh, that's a cool little mod! I might just try that out, I bet it makes a noticeable difference in handling. Are these the correct bolts in the link? https://www.rallysportdirect.com/part/subframe-bolts/whi-ksb750-whiteline-subframe-locking-bolts

That's quite a few options, but it does seem like the WRX Wagon struts are the "safest" way to go, but I honestly have no clue. Have you thought about buying some coilovers made for the Legacy or are all of those not very good?

Haha, I wish I had a weigh scale to weigh the parts that came off of my car; I should get one. Weight reduction management system, yo. :cool:

[Go Mifune]

Yes, those are the ones or the Kartboy ones here:
http://www.amazon.com/Kartboy-Subframe-Lockdown-Subaru-2002-2007/dp/B007O0JFQY/ref=pd_rhf_ee_p_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=1JRQPPPXPTF7R4JDQE19
Again, I haven't done this yet but others have so should be fine.

BC Racing makes a correct coil over for our Legacys and they also offer the Swift Springs. I have no proof that Feals are better. From what I've read, $3k to $6k is the price for top quality coil overs but if I had that kind of bread, I'd probably be driving an Evora:-)

[Gavin_XVI]

Cool, thanks for the info!

I was actually thinking about getting the BC Racing coilovers, they seem pretty good and they aren't too bad of a price either.

[Go Mifune]

Finally finished sanding and polishing my SSR Competitions. Not perfect but I'm pretty happy with them. Now all that's needed are the funds for tires and to decide if I'll have to sell my BBS RKs.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/03/rovu0Ctl-1.jpg
In other news, I'm now leaning back towards Koni inserts rather than coil overs. Next week who knows?

[Muse]

Next week, the debate will be between Konis or air ride! And the week after that, lift or lower? :toothy8:

[Go Mifune]

If we had flying cars like we're supposed to, I wouldn't need a suspension.

[Muse]

Right? I've been saying it for years. Then again, we also wouldn't have Australian burnout competitions...

[Go Mifune]

Since my goal is to get on track this year and funds are tight, I've decided a compromise is needed. I have the coin for the suspension I want but that leaves me without tires. So-

WRX KYB GR-2s
Struts-----------------$237 shipped includes $40 rebate Rock auto
WRX spring perches------?
STi Pink (for WRX)---$254 223/195 spring rate- 15 to 22mm drop
Group-N Top mounts-$360
Camber bolts-----------$25
Strut boots-------------$60
Total-------------------$936 + misc. hardware & bumpstops

I'll need to find spring perches-They don't seem to be available online as a separate part.
Might do camber plates up front instead of group-N
This leaves me with the ability to do the Koni inserts down the road if wanted.
This allows me to keep the BBS RKs/Comp 2s for road trips.
Yes I've looked into takeoff 2004 STi struts but if they're shot, so am I

Any thoughts?

[foohfooh]

Seems logical to me. Track time/track tires are not cheap! In the end, i think, regardless of the hp, you will have a blast driving something something you carefully built yourself. Pshhh. Lotus, who needs one of those (eyeroll)

[Tylerhartman]

Since my goal is to get on track this year and funds are tight, I've decided a compromise is needed. I have the coin for the suspension I want but that leaves me without tires. So-

WRX KYB GR-2s
Struts-----------------$237 shipped includes $40 rebate Rock auto
WRX spring perches------?
STi Pink (for WRX)---$254 223/195 spring rate- 15 to 22mm drop
Group-N Top mounts-$360
Camber bolts-----------$25
Strut boots-------------$60
Total-------------------$936 + misc. hardware & bumpstops

I'll need to find spring perches-They don't seem to be available online as a separate part.
Might do camber plates up front instead of group-N
This leaves me with the ability to do the Koni inserts down the road if wanted.
This allows me to keep the BBS RKs/Comp 2s for road trips.
Yes I've looked into takeoff 2004 STi struts but if they're shot, so am I

Any thoughts?

Considering doing a setup like this, Sub'd for more. Side note are you going to be running rear saggy butt spacers?

[Go Mifune]

Geez,you're right. Probably will need spacers. Last night I was reading a detailed, multi page thread on Nasioc where the guy was running coil overs for autocross. After about a year, they started leaking so he changed over to Koni inserts. I thought great, Im finally going to get a well written comparison between coil overs and Konis! He slapped on the Konis and then immediately retired from autocross. After reading 18 pages till midnight, I could have choked the SOB.

[Tylerhartman]

Geez,you're right. Probably will need spacers. Last night I was reading a detailed, multi page thread on Nasioc where the guy was running coil overs for autocross. After about a year, they started leaking so he changed over to Koni inserts. I thought great, Im finally going to get a well written comparison between coil overs and Konis! He slapped on the Konis and then immediately retired from autocross. After reading 18 pages till midnight, I could have choked the SOB.

I totally understand, there's so many ways with cars, or any hobby i'm into.. to do one said thing but there's always a "better way" I'm not sure I want to go coils, I like the idea of WRX struts even with lowering springs they'll probably last longer. I love forum threads like that... I was reading a thread like that with 16 pages using cheap crappy ebay parts and the guy never said if it ran after all the pages explaining and fighting with people.. pretty good stuff hahahahaha :D

[Go Mifune]

I called today on those WRX Pinks because only one place in the US didn't list them as discontinued. In stock (yeah!) and are wagon specific so possibly won't need the saggy butt spacers. On the other hand, raising the rear would tune in a little oversteer if needed. Nice to know there's still some height adjustment options. Now for the final decision on tires.

[Go Mifune]

Don't want anyone to pass out from excitement but I picked up brand new 2004-2007 WRX front spring perches today. One small step for man, blah, blah,blah.

Todays question is-Anyone using the Whiteline COM C front top mounts? I'm hoping to get to the track at least twice this year and like what I've read about them. OK, two questions. Will the 2004-2007 WRX Group N rear top mounts fit my BK? I'll be using GD WRX struts back there as well.

[Muse]

Dang. I was gonna write something sooner, but I passed out from excitement before I could.

Seriously, though. Every little step is a good thing. congrats.

[Go Mifune]

Since I'm starting to buy suspension parts, I thought I would drive out for track day at High Plains Raceway to scope out the competition, you know for later this spring. Back in the olden days when I had my RX-7, the paddock would be filled with VW rabbits and Sciroccos, MG-Bs, RX-7s, BMW 2002s and a couple of Porsches and Corvettes. I knew I was in for a rude awakening when the first car I spotted was a Ferrari Daytona. "I'm shaking it out before I take it to Daytona." said the very friendly owner. My head spun at the thought of a 1971 Daytona on the banking ...at Daytona.

It only got worse from there. Which color GT-R would you like to be destroyed by? Could the Gallardo not be a Superleggera? The Mustang not the new GT350? Do you prefer Z06, GT2, GT3 or GT4? I'm not even sure I've heard of a GT4! While I was sitting in one, yes one of the Vipers, the owner said not to worry that I only have 95 horsepower. "What are you reaching on the straight?" I asked. "142" he said as if he was telling me the gas mileage of his Camry. Oh wait, Miatas. Those are only fast..ish....annnnd turbocharged. Finally I saw a Mustang and an equally scruffy 260Z parked next to each other. How fast can they be? Well, the Mustang has a stroker 408 and the 260Z has a Ford 5.0.

Things did improve after I met Mathew, an Army Apache pilot with a 480 rwhp 2004 Mustang Cobra on R-spec tires. He's getting his Mustang ready for another run at the Silver State Classic. After about five minutes he offered me a ride. Wow! This track reminds me of the roller coaster at New York New York, kind of fun, and he was a good driver. I did notice that we got passed a few times. Mostly by expensive Germans and the occasional sports racer.

Mathew wanted to know what time the track closed so I walked up to a young guy and asked. He said that he was only a crew member, and didn't know but Randy Pobst would. Oh f'ing great. Now I'm stroking out thinking my Legacy L could be going up against a 90 time pro winner who won his class twice at the 24 Hours of Daytona. I did get a picture with him though. I even got to tell him my story about the time Mario Andretti ran over my foot. He said "Well that's quite an honor." and I agreed.

Just before leaving I noticed Mister Viper talking to Mathew leaning on his Cobra. Mister Viper also has a Cobra. Mathew wanted to see it but no, it was at home. I joked that he had brought his good car today, the Viper. "No," he said, "the good car was at home with the cobra." A Murcielago apparently.

If anyone needs me, I'll be under my bed in the fetal position, but I will be plotting.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/fdg4GkMl-1.jpg

Kobayashi hanging out with his new Ferrari buddy. The owner cracked up when he saw me taking this picture.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/syPc7Bsl-1.jpg

Mathew and his Cobra
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/7HbimiNl-1.jpg

Me hanging out with my new friend Randy Pobst. Do I look stressed?
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/tiSfchpl-1.jpg

[Strykr]

Wow that sounds like a blast!!

[Muse]

Wow, that's some fun stuff... And it's not the high-HP cars that would scare me off. It's that little yellow Caterham.

[Go Mifune]

There was a guy with a sports racer, basically a pinto engine doing ten second faster laps than the Mustang I rode in. I'm sure that Caterham would not be far behind.

Here's my favorite pic. from today.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/Y7nUXfal-1.jpg

[foohfooh]

Dang man. Your hanging with the big boys now.

Honestly it would be so rad to see your wagon track in person. Go pro mount or something?!

If your really nervous i think there might be events geared for cars with lower hp? Or I know for smaller tracks there's open track days/car Club takeovers.

Either way! Rad times will be had.

[Go Mifune]

Supposedly the Thursday night events are less upscale but the track is 92 miles from home so could be fun if something breaks. What the heck, I'm determined to get there and now I don't need to worry about keeping up. So besides suspension and tires, I will have a perfect and very exciting mod as you can see below.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/7cvoBA2l-1.jpg

[Muse]

Never underestimate the power of a big cone!

[Go Mifune]

I find it really annoying when people on here say they have some part coming and won't say what it is. So to keep up the tradition, something is coming in the mail but won't say what it is.:smt036 Hint- I got my money back on the WRX spring perches.
Oh yeah Ferrari, it's coming.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/SrgcB9lm-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

A small thing but got my Kartboy rear subframe bolts today.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/uYsrmnom-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Got home yesterday to find a package by the garage. Feal 441 coilovers; 7k front & 4k rear Swift springs. Based on info I got from someone on SL-i last year, it looks like it's dropping 20 pounds off the front suspension. I don't know about the rears but perhaps a similar weight savings. These won't be installed immediately for various reasons but I'm anxious to get started. I guess all that's missing are camber bolts. I haven't done any suspension work this involved since rebuilding my '67 Triumph TR-4 V8, and that was about a quarter century ago. Wish me luck!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/04/6cvnB7Uh-1.jpg

[Muse]

I'm sorry... Did you say TR4 v8? I am intrigued.

[Go Mifune]

Yeah, I've had a few interesting cars over the years. My TR-4 is one that shouldn't have gone away. Funny thing is I never checked a 0 to 60 time on it but I'm pretty sure it was quicker than anything else I have owned. About 2200 pounds and a small block Chevy.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/showthread.php?19516-Go-Mifune-s-Highs-and-Lows

[nepbug]

oooh, Feals, I'm very jealous. Just did a quick catch-up on the car, looking good. If I ever get the GTI back in good shape maybe I'll join you at the track and we can have a nice low-hp battle!

[Go Mifune]

Oh darn, it's a GTI? I was hoping you had a regular Rabbit with at least one dead piston. Once the coil overs are installed, I guess there are no other excuses so game on!

[nepbug]

Oh darn, it's a GTI? I was hoping you had a regular Rabbit with at least one dead piston. Once the coil overs are installed, I guess there are no other excuses so game on!

Yep a GTI, with the later 16V engine installed in it. Oh, and high compression forged internals and maybe a few other parts...:toothy5:

I just need to get the gearbox fixed, fifth gear is destroyed. I need to really get that going before it becomes an issue in my marriage, lol.

If we can manage to actually do a track day at the same time maybe we'll do some car swapping and try out each other's ride.

[Go Mifune]

Finally some progress to report! First are the Kartboy rear subframe lock down bolts. Nothing much to look at but a picture nonetheless. I did have to loosen the subframe to allow the passenger side bolt to go in. I tried everything I could think of to get the subframe aligned and still have three hands free to get the tap started. Nothing. Out of desperation I shoved the plastic bushing into the hole and that for some reason worked.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/06/Zl41wmLl-1.jpg

Next the Feal coilovers are installed. The last OEM strut to come off, the front right was the only one that wasn't completely dead. I kept the height up a bit for various reasons. It needs an alignment so It's only been up and down the street. It feels a little nervous which is just as I was hoping; sort of like my 1970 1/2 Trans Am, except with one third the power. Of course you can't tell much in one block so I'll try not to get weepy with joy yet.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/06/RXoGwfBl-1.jpg
Next the rear strut tower bar needs some attention, polishing the aluminum center section and painting the ends. Luckily a friend pointed out that my seat color is very close to World Rally Blue so WRB it is. Then off for an alignment which with my schedule won't happen for a few weeks. If any of you track rats have a suggestion for F/R camber settings, I'd appreciate it!

Forgot to mention that the Coilovers dropped the weight by 38 pounds, so now roughly 2840 with a full tank.

[Go Mifune]

Stripped the strut tower bar ends and painted them World Rally Blue; then sanded the beat up center section but just to 1000 grit as the glare was excessive when it was polished.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/06/0IMuwtKl-1.jpg

Now I just need to re-torque the sway bar mounts and hope my tires survive the forty miles to the alignment shop.
Two years with this car and only two weeks away from taking its first corner at speed!

[KNaph]

Those Feals look so good. Is the car exclusively a track car or will you be streeting it a bit too? I haven't had the chance to track my car yet so I can't speak on that, but I run F: -2.3 degrees R: -2.15 degrees. I know a lot of dedicated track guys are running like -3 to -3.5 degrees front camber and I've seen anywhere from -1.5 to -2.5 rear camber.

I drive my car pretty aggressively around some mountain roads so I can say in that type of performance wise it works pretty well. I had previously had my car around -1.8*ish front camber before I ever got aligned, and was at about whatever stock camber is in the rear. It worked well but when I finally added camber rear camber bolts and dialed in about -2ish degrees the car felt alive. Turn in was way better, the car rotated in the corners a lot better, still understeered but not nearly as badly. Then I got an alignment and went with the -2.3 front -2.15 rear and the car feels just about the same, turn in suffered because I got rid of the toe out, but otherwise the car rotates the same and still feels great in the corners.

I would also play with the damping of your coilovers too. I've been experimenting with my damping a lot over the past few months since I haven't been too happy with how the car handles. I tried equal damping front and rear, decent but not great. More front less rear, no good, understeered a lot. Less front and more rear damping started to work out, it makes the rear want to rotate around a little more, it's not snappy or anything but you can definitely feel the difference. I can't say the same will work for you since you have softer rear springs and I don't know how the Feal coils are set up, but just experiment with the knobs and you'll find a combo you like. Try going to the extremes to figure out quickly what the adjustment is doing.

I run 0* toe and I haven't noticed any camber wear over the last couple thousand miles.

I didn't align my car for almost 15 months or something crazy like that on my last set of tires which only had about half of their life left when I got them. Unless you're massively toed out, which I highly doubt you are. Your car isn't exceptionally low so your toe really probably isn't that far out so you don't need to worry too much about tire wear. My rear toe was still zeroed out when I got an alignment and I'm substantially lower than factory. I think you'll be fine to take the car out for a quick spin. Just be a bit careful with grooved pavement and stuff, my car used to wander like crazy when I was on the highway before the alignment, still does wander, but it's not trying to kill me now.

Interested to see how this thing goes since there's not really too many that track these. Good luck getting the suspension dialed in! I think dialing in the suspension is almost as fun as the driving itself.

[Go Mifune]

Knaph, thanks for such a detailed reply! So far this car has mostly been used for going to Costco. I've put 8k on it in two years but that includes a 2400 mile trip to Illinois. I'd like to do two track days this year to get a feel for it and then get better tires for next. I've tracked cars before but never had any adjustments to play with besides tire pressure so this should be interesting, maybe even fun. I was going to be timid and stay about -2 degrees front but based on what you wrote, maybe -2.5. I'm taking it to a race shop for the alignment so I'll also get their opinion. The race shop was actually the cheapest as everyone else wanted more to go anywhere near coilovers.

I have a friend who stupidly mentioned that he owns a Go Pro. I wonder if he owes me anything? Well, if I can manipulate him into loaning it to me I'll post some videos of me getting overtaken by the champagne crowd at High Plains Raceway.

[Go Mifune]

A few updates- First the alignment is done! -2.5 front and -1.3 rear with 0 toe all around. The tech said he wanted to get some rotation in the corners.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/07/4rDJUFsl-1.jpg

Next the spoiler is painted and installed. Added six pounds to the weight of the wagon but at least it's at the rear. This is really a nerve-racking install but I only screwed it up the slightest amount, so... OK! I also painted the front wiper arms while I had the paint handy

Also picked up this poor man's Gopro off of Amazon. I'm having an issue with an internal rattle but otherwise not bad for $60ish. My getting a camera was requested by Foohfooh so thanks for the idea!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/07/pGx6Esrl-1.jpg

[foohfooh]

Hey now! That's pretty rad.

What is the camera mounTed to? I know some guys have a harness bar or something as a fixed point. Yours seems to be floating behind ur seat.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks! It is floating sort of. It's this mount from Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Version-Sametop-Adjustable-Gooseneck/dp/B01CQ6PWSA/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1469503821&sr=1-1&keywords=sametop+jaws+flex

[subieadam]

Those wheels turned out great!

[Go Mifune]

Those wheels turned out great!

Thanks but after buying them, it seemed suspicious that they had been used with snow tires and were cheap. After spending the winter polishing them but just before buying tires, I took them to a wheel specialist here in Denver and was told and shown that all four were slightly bent. The bill to fix them is $780 so instead they are getting sold-with full disclosure- and hopefully I can get back my costs.

[nepbug]

I have a feeling you might want more rear bracing in the future. Some ideas to consider:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/08/ForesterRearStrutBar007-1.jpg

or this:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/08/cuscoOSTbrace-1.jpg

or even this!:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/08/DSC_1051JPG-1.jpg

[nepbug]

Cars looking great, I want to come hear the exhaust note sometime. (I've been swamped at work and totally away from my car projects, hopefully back at it soon.)

[Go Mifune]

Cars looking great, I want to come hear the exhaust note sometime. (I've been swamped at work and totally away from my car projects, hopefully back at it soon.)

You are welcome any time! Also, of the braces above, I'll have the middle one please.

[Go Mifune]

$10 Craigslist find. Whiteline GC front strut tower brace. Had heavy corrosion but polished up pretty nice. Of course added four pounds so I'll have to diet to compensate.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/08/baGNSh9l-1.jpg

And this Broadway 300mm convex mirror. Ridiculous view and fits between the visors.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/08/xbMs0RCm-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Did a pre-track inspection today and flushed out my $65 Castrol React brake fluid. It needed flushing as it's been sitting for eighteen months. I was supposed to get to the track last year (and the year before) but no. Replaced it with $18 Redline RL-600. All good until I noticed cracks in the sidewall on one of my tires. They are only 33% worn but dry rotted. I was hoping to get at least one track day on them and then drive to Illinois at the end of this month. I'm reminded that my effing race helmet is now 2 1/2 years old and still new in the box!

After deciding to buy a make do set of tires and spending a few hours on Tirerack's site, ended up ordering the wrong tires. Stress and exhaustion will do that. Now I need to sort that out in the morning. Track driving is so much easier on Gran Turismo.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/09/WxtCgAYh-1.jpg

[peugoby]

What tires did you intend to buy from TireRack? Sorry about your misfortunes and having your old set dry-rot out. I am hoping to catch a late season autocross myself

[Go Mifune]

Thanks Toby! Sumitomo HTR ZIII max performance summer, 215/45/17 for $70 per tire. These will be the driving to Costco tires when it's warm enough to safely be on them. The wagon may go on jack stands during the worst of the winter. Next spring will hopefully bring a dedicated set of track tires and rims. I've really enjoyed reading your thread and your wagon is amazing! Also we need details and video if possible when you autocross.

[peugoby]

Thanks Toby! Sumitomo HTR ZIII max performance summer, 215/45/17 for $70 per tire..

I'm running that exact tire in the exact same size right now on my SSR's. They've been great so far. Awesome for the price. I've not even gotten close to the limits of the traction on the streets. You'll be happy with them. I've been a Pirelli guy forever but for the price these tires are unbeatable. I'll hopefully get a video of sorts from the autocross. I love your wagon as well! I'm still jealous of those Feal coilovers you're running.

[Go Mifune]

I'm over my tantrum and so will try to get to the track next Friday. Cool that you have the same tire! The Feals are nowhere near as harsh as I thought they would be. They are only 7F/4Rs where other people are around 10F/10R. My wife even thinks they are reasonable although she still hates my seats:-) Autocross video YES!

[Go Mifune]

I finally did it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnnz7nn8r1Y

[foohfooh]

Bwhaha dude that looks so freakin fun! So many American v8s! Lil miatas are flying! What made the red one spin out? Also love that the guy was thoroughly confused by your windows.

[peugoby]

That looks like way too much fun! Congrats on going five seconds under your original time goal. There is something so rewarding about driving a slow-car 10/10th's all-out.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks guys! I think the Miata was just going too fast off of the straight but I did't see enough to say so probably shouldn't. A BMW driver told me he had done the same thing in the morning with his M3. As far as fast Miatas. I think at least one of them was supercharged and the others were Spec Miata racers. Also I wasn't kidding about the fourteen year old. He said in the drivers meeting that he would be driving and the entire room went "Huh?"

That BMW instructor told me that my wheels at 7" are too narrow even for the 215s on the track; as did my alignment guy. I was amazed though at how the Sumitomos stuck. They never felt greasy. Not bad for $70 tires!

I'm planning a couple more weight reduction mods but I think I'll have to break down and do something towards horsepower. Would a header even be noticeable on the 2.2? Header and Delta cams?

There were two STis at the track and both guys were on their second engine-both blown at the track. They told me not to go boost unless my budget increases exponentially. If 20 flywheel horsepower is doable with n/a mods, combined with R-spec tires, I'd feel a little less like a sitting duck; for a while:-)

[Go Mifune]

After watching about a million Youtube videos, it can be safely said that I own the slowest lap time at High Plains Raceway; at least among those willing to share their videos. Two to three seconds per lap will get me out of that particular hole. First the rear bar went from medium to full stiff. Of course while down there, the bar was washed and waxed, like you do.
Correction- Finally found a 1970 Challenger possibly on snow tires lapping slower than me. Yeah!

Then my '96 Outback donated it's intake to the '97 Legacy for a 4 pound (I know) weight loss and a claimed by the forums 5 horsepower (again, I know) gain. I haven't driven it yet so I can hold onto that dream a little longer. The next move involves spending money so probably post Christmas. To apologize to my Outback for the loss of it's coveted early intake, as I'm not a complete monster, I installed new hatch struts.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/10/bLm7lsFl-1.jpg

[KNaph]

Haven't really been around the forums lately, but you seemed like you improved a ton throughout the video! I'm gonna play a little bit of armchair racecar driver here but bear with me haha. I don't have the actual driver seat knowledge, but I've got friends racing spec E30, go karts, and drifting who I talk a lot with so hopefully I can pass on some of what I've learned from them.

From watching the early laps you seemed to leave a bit of track unused to be safe, but you definitely started using more of the track the further into the video, huge time improvement I'd bet. Also since our cars just don't have that much power you're gonna have to carry a lot more momentum into the corners, so really just trying to hold off on the brakes, using as little brake as possible since we don't have the power to accelerate out of turns as a Corvette or something. Seemed like you were starting to get brave with the brakes and staying on the gas more/longer, so you definitely pulled some time out with that too.

Now this is just speculation, and it really depends on how your suspension is set up, but some of those curbs look huge and probably shouldn't be driven on, but some look doable. If your suspension isn't extremely stiff, I might try on a couple laps to just barely skirt the bottom edge of the curb with the tire and see how the car reacts, if it gets really unsettled then obviously that won't help the lap times, but if the ride height is high enough, and the suspension is compliant enough then you should be able to take a decent amount of curb and get a better line through things like the esses.

Also, I think somewhere in the video you mentioned the rear of the car getting light under braking, I think that just may be all Subarus in general, my car gets light in the rear when my brakes get warm and I brake aggressively. From everything that I've read about Subaru brakes, a lot of people recommend doing the "H6" rear brake upgrade to help balance out the braking. This supposedly helps the car brake a little flatter so there's not as much weight transfer up front but I can't comment myself. Obviously this all costs money.

Tires as you mentioned would probably improve your times.

Good luck next time!

[Go Mifune]

Thanks KNaph for your spot on comments. It's definitely a momentum car until some horsepower can be added. Yes, the first session was driven quite slowly, learning the track and shifting around five grand. By the end I just wanted some self respect and flogged the car unmercifully.

I'll have to go back through some of the Youtube videos and see how others are attacking the curbs. You're absolutely correct that time and speed could be gained there. I'll also take your lead from an earlier post and try the softer front dampening.

One of my concerns is that on three corners, I had to shift into second to get going knowing that the Subaru 5 speed doesn't like that kind of abuse. I'm toying with the idea of smaller diameter tires to avoid second gear by raising my revs coming out of those three. I'd really like to swap to the 4.11 tranny but not sure if it would be worth the effort. To be honest, I only like working on cars when everything goes well. Usually it doesn't.

A big concern is the closing speeds of everybody else. I tried to wave them by as much as possible but it would be a blast to actually keep up with..somebody! After telling my wife that a turbo for the track would be a terrible idea for reliability, I find myself secretly looking at TD04s and TMICs on Craigslist. I absolutely don't have the means to do a WRX swap but the low boost EJ22! I swear I 'll keep it to five pounds of boost. Honest! It's a sickness.

I've already spent ten grand in my mind. In reality, small steps will be all that can be expected.

[KNaph]

Yeah, I like having the front softer, it feels like it helps the rear end of the car rotate around a bit more, I don't know if it helps with lap times or just driver feel, but a car that feels good is usually a faster one since you're more comfortable pushing the limit.

Smaller tires definitely help, I don't remember what percentage smaller my tires are, but it definitely livens up the car and gives it better drive out of the corners. One note about that is it may not give you enough of a gearing advantage to stay in 3rd to drive out of those slow corners. What I'm getting at is that you may still have to downshift into 2nd, and having those smaller tires will put you even higher up in the RPM band and puts you in greater danger of a possible over rev or if not that, it just gives you a smaller working window of RPM to play with out of the corners. Like if you're at about 5500-6000 RPM in 2nd coming out of those corners, you're going to probably be at about 5800-6300 and are so close to redline that you may only be able to use 2nd gear for a short amount of time before you're bouncing the limiter and will just have to shift up mid corner.

I'm not sure if those corners are low or high speed 2nd gear corners though, if you're at like 3500 RPM in 2nd gear through these corners then by all means go for the smaller tire, it accelerates quicker and the car just feels faster because of that so it gets a lot more fun.

Final drive is probably something I would hold off on though, it would probably help gain back lost time in the corners, and may allow you to reach a higher MPH down the straights but it's kind of a if it ain't broke don't fix it thing.

And yeah, closing speeds are hard to judge and it's always better to be cautious and let people through but then it destroys your lap time.

I think honestly any power adder even with minimal gains will help, these cars are so gutless and pretty heavy that almost any gain in power will begin to help. If you're willing to do a cheapish motor build, maybe a Frankenmotor EJ25 block with EJ22 heads and Delta cams? I've heard decent things about those, apparently pretty torquey so it might help out in the low RPMs and then having the Delta cams will give you a boost up high. But now we're talking money so I'll stop putting ideas in your head haha.


One question, how did the brakes hold up when you were on track? I know they're larger than factory and the pads are pretty aggressive, did you have any issues with temperatures or were they just solid all day, seems like your track has a lot of high speed and heavy braking zones so it should be a good testament to how they work.

I'm worried about my own brake setup since I can get them to fade on the street. I'm thinking I should be fine for a track day if I just get a track specific pad.

[Go Mifune]

I'd have to check my rpms at 35 mph but IIRC those corners were about 2800 rpm if left in third so not much pull. As far as the brakes, they were perfect all day. I've had three previous "track" cars and all with street pads and fluid. For most of that time, there was no internet and I had no car friends so no clue how to set up for the track. Brake fade was always a huge problem but none this time. My guess is that my previous brake problems were from boiling fluid. Slowing from 85 isn't much of a strain although I sure could have gone deeper into the corners for a faster lap. Perhaps next time as my goal was just to survive and hit that 2:45 lap.

Also I love the coilovers. On soft they feel sporty but very comfortable for the street. The car -a STATION WAGON- felt absolutely planted on the track, especially considering the $70 tires. I've read so many posts saying how horrible coilovers are and almost bought springs instead but wow I'm glad I didn't listen.

Also the Corbeau seats sure help. Even with standard seat belts, I never had a death grip on the steering wheel or other nonsense to keep from sliding side to side. I was going to buy a seatbelt lock but now I don't think it's needed.

So in summary, I love my brakes, my coilovers and my seats but my engine sucks:-) My weak, weak budget will probably limit me to wider wheels and possibly a few small things next year. Delta cams would be a fun mod and still work if later a Frankenmotor were to happen. I've been told that changing out the cams on an EJ22 is somewhat easier than the EJ25. Any thoughts on that?

[KNaph]

Oh, you should be fine to get smaller tires then if that's the case.

And yeah, I've just been told by so many people like "Oh, you don't want to track your car, you'll boil your brakes and crash" or something along those lines that I started getting really nervous about braking power/temps. Actually now that I think about it, I just got back from a drive and my brakes really only fade because I'm not giving them time to cool, it's usually a lot of heavy braking zones in a relatively short amount of time. Getting more confidence back about them but still a bit weary about it.

And yeah, I'm really jealous about your Feal coils. My friend just a set custom developed by Odi (the owner of Feal), custom spring rate, damper tuning and I think they're supposed to help Odi R&D a new line for AE86s. The quality of the Feal coils look so nice, even at the base level, and for not much more than what I paid for mine too. Coils will generally always be stiffer than struts/springs but the cool thing is you can soften them up for daily driving or something and it'll be soft enough to not hate yourself, but you've always got the opportunity to turn them up and get more performance.

And yeah bucket seats, or just seats with bolsters in general are a HUGE difference to the driving experience. When I first put my Recaro in I didn't know how to drive because I wasn't doing the death grip and using my legs to keep me planted.

One trick regarding the seatbelt lock is this:
Skip to 11:06, the forum isn't letting me link directly to the time stamp.

https://youtu.be/WGtIerbbgNU?t=666

Notice what he does with the buckle, basically just spins the buckle around and it acts like a seatbelt lock, pretty neat trick that I learned from that channel.

And I have no idea about engine stuff really, I would imagine they're about the same since you're gonna have to drop the motor out either way. I'll have to take a look at my EJ22e block in the garage, I'd imagine the valve cover may be a bit easier to pull off since it's a single cam, dunno though.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks for the link. I'll have to try that as free mods are just great. The Nissan brakes you're thinking about should pretty much solve your stopping concerns. Also who knows if the Feals are better than Your BC BRs.

Your friend is lucky to get Odi's attention. When I ordered mine it was like-send us the money and sit in the corner until something shows up.

[KNaph]

No problem! And yeah, free mods are the best mods.

But yeah, my biggest concern is also that since I'm planning the motor build the output should be at least 100 HP more so I'm just worried that when I eventually get that motor built and swapped in, I won't have enough brakes to deal with that amount of power.

And I just think that the Feals look better in terms of build quality and hardware. I as well as that same friend with the AE86 have had issues with improper valving on he dampers. The compression damping seems perfect, however we both have had issues with the rebound damping. With more entry level coilovers the knob on the top usually only adjusts rebound damping, but I think since I ordered custom spring rates the valving wasn't adjusted for the spring rate so there's not enough damper adjustment to control the shock.

My car tends to have a bit of a residual bounce in the rear of the car after going over a bump, almost like blown struts, but the thing is it's dampened perfectly for high speed bumps but low speed bumps tend to have that bounce so they're not blown. It's all just a matter of having purchased entry level coilovers, they do their job really well in one area, but they fail in another area. I would definitely prefer a stable car at high speeds and sacrifice comfort/stability in low speeds, but it kind of sucks that having both isn't really a possibility without going much more expensive.


And yeah, I'm sure Odi only really invests his time more into the racing development side, those are generally the higher paying customers and the ones requiring more support to get the maximum performance out of his product.

[Go Mifune]

100 more horsepower! When you're done with yours, come do mine:-)

[KNaph]

Haha yeah, it's a pretty easily achievable number based off of what a few of the guys here have done but I want to make sure everything is rock solid without reaching for absurd numbers, plus I want really good responsive low end power rather than big top end. In the 3ish years that I've owned the car, I've hit 6000 RPM like 6 times, the motor just feels really weak up that high anyways so I keep it down around 3000-5000.

The whole motor process keeps getting delayed for me though, I'm pretty content with just staying stock for now, but when I finally do build it then I'll make sure to keep some numbers and info!

[Go Mifune]

Yes, very doable. When I fist got my Legacy, I did two 0 to 60 passes with the first being about 12 seconds and the second 11 seconds. The second time shifting near 6000 rpm. This was in Illinois and so 5000 feet lower in altitude. Back in Denver, I got a 13 second 0 to 60 on one try. Goes a long way towards explaining my lap times. Maybe I'll try it again since the weight has dropped by about 160 pounds. Possibly a 12.6?

I'm thankful for all of your feedback and please do a full writeup when you get around to the engine. Don't end it with "drove car 400 miles and something blew up!"

[Go Mifune]

A small thing but if you don't know, Subaru will replace worn seat belts for free as in $0. Thanks SOA!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/11/LskS7USl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

I replaced the video with a shorter version that can be played in 480P. The original was very poor quality.
High Plains Raceway had a free customer appreciation day. It was cold but a very good day. Well, except for the Infiniti which was on a manufacturer's plate so someone is taking heat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcvVmtZzCpw

[nepbug]

I bet the cold air helped a lot with the faster times, but it also might have been the change is driving technique that was working better for you. Overall your lines seemed pretty good to me. Seeing that GTI struggle to pass you makes me really want to get mine out there, it will probably be a pretty close battle as my GTI is not turbo charged and that turbo one wasn't exactly drastically faster than you.

In the meantime, maybe we should get together to do some racing at the Bandimere Go Karts. They are a blast and wearing the thick racing suits is better suited for the cold weather anyways. I'll have to look, they often have Groupon 2 for 1 deals going there.

Looks like they have a groupon but now go by time, it used to be a 10-lap race. Still a fun deal.
https://www.groupon.com/deals/action-karting-8

I think you hit near 50mph on the front straight in those karts.

[peugoby]

High Plains Raceway had a free customer appreciation day. It was cold but a very good day. Well, except for the Infiniti which was on a manufacturer's plate so someone is taking heat.


Nicely edited together! Even better to watch your Legacy in motion. 9 seconds is a HUGE difference from your PB in September, great work! High Plains seems like it really benefits high HP cars with big, fast sweepers. I'd love to see your car on a tighter course where you can make the best use of the available traction & not be reliant on big HP to sling shot you down the track. Any other plans for it in 2017?

I'm curious, how much quicker was that Mk7 GTi?

[Go Mifune]

In the meantime, maybe we should get together to do some racing at the Bandimere Go Karts. They are a blast and wearing the thick racing suits is better suited for the cold weather anyways.


I got to do several laps in a shifter Kart years ago. It was fun but it was very odd for me. The tach shook so much that I couldn't read it and just shifted when it hit redline. Also, sitting so low to the ground was spatially confusing. It felt like the track was miles wide. So of course I'd like to do that with you! Unfortunately I have the flu right now. I was feeling crappy at the track and then it really hit on the drive home.

Regarding my laps, I agree the cold air was most of the improved acceleration but won't know for sure till summer. The rear bar set on full absolutely killed the understeer and if I was a bit braver and nothing else, I could have taken another second or so off of my times. One lap, on the last corner coming onto the long straight, I gave it too much steering on purpose just to see if it would spin. It just turned more so there's definitely room for improvement with my driving.

Update: After watching the September and December videos side by side, it seems that most of the lowered lap times came from the straights rather than the corners. September was 85 degrees F vs. 50 for December; which means I won't know anything till June or so. Drats!

[Go Mifune]

High Plains seems like it really benefits high HP cars with big, fast sweepers.
I'm curious, how much quicker was that Mk7 GTi?

That's what I keep telling myself! More POWWERR! Thanks for the kind words.
I'm not sure about the GTi but a guess would be about a 2:20 plus or minus.
I saw a Youtube video where a 2008 stock GTi with good tires and upgraded brakes did a 2:17
I've seen an early WRX do a 2:26 on all season tires
I talked to a built STi driver this summer who is doing about a 2:13
That Corvette with the wing in my video does about a 1:57
And those Spec Miata's are doing 2:10s

I'm sure going to miss your car on SLi but good luck selling it. She's a beauty!
And for what's next, I'll have a post shortly

[Go Mifune]

I've had numerous people tell me my wheels are too narrow for the track (17 X 7 BBS RKs) so I've been shopping. I desperately wanted Enkei RPF1s but shouldn't be spending that much. Tire Rack is having a closeout on Kosei K5Rs so yippee, I got some! One inch wider and one pound lighter than the BBS RKs. Fender rolling is probably needed but maybe not much as Tire Rack has these fitting my car (48 offset). Now the question is to keep the RKs or not.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/12/fPvqDPal-1.jpg

It will probably be June before tires are bought so something else to decide. Also got these for Christmas. If I get the new tires this summer, I'd better keep a low profile for awhile. My wife is wonderfully supportive but everyone has their limits.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2016/12/kwQFBPPl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Still have the flu but couldn't wait to do a fitting. Strut clearance for miles but fenders are a question till tires. These aren't my favorite wheels for looks but they do appear better in person than in photos. I'm thinking 215/40/17 for a slight gearing advantage plus lighter weight tires. A few months to decide so no hurry. And again-Kosei K5R, 17x8, 48 offset, 16.3 pounds which agrees with my bathroom scale. Apologies for the dirty car but haven't touched it since the track day.



https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/01/0ANvdOF-1.jpg

[nepbug]

Kosei wheels are a popular track choice. I have a couple of Kosei K1 sets for the GTI. They don't seem to be that durable though, I have a cracked one and bent one that was from the previous owner driving on them and hitting a pot hole. If I were you I would drive some all seasons to the track and then switch wheels there. They are cast wheels and not forged, so that is probably why they are slightly lower on the strength. Nice and light though!

[Go Mifune]

If I were you I would drive some all seasons to the track and then switch wheels there. They are cast wheels and not forged, so that is probably why they are slightly lower on the strength.

Agreed but it's going to come down to 2017 income I'm afraid. Four scenarios:
#1 (perfect world) Keep BBS wheels and get A/S tires. It would be nice to be able to drive at temps. below 40F and save my track tires.
#2 (instant gratification) Sell the BBS wheels in the spring and buy something like 16" WRX takeoffs and A/S tires in the fall, giving me the tire money upfront.
#3 (hard times) Do as now where my track tires/wheels are also for the street. Bent/cracked wheel could be a concern and these wheels are discontinued. On the other hand, in my 42 years (holy crap I'm old!) of driving, I've never damaged a wheel; except for that time when a truck attempted to take the side off of my RX-7.
#4 Find a better job:-)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/01/0Ey896Oh-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Whiteline front and rear end links installed. They've started using salt on the roads in Colorado so I might not know how these feel till spring.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/01/ezrWjFel-1.jpg

[SLW-SVT]

Great thread and enjoying the progress on your car!

[Go Mifune]

Great thread and enjoying the progress on your car!

Thanks very much! I'm having way too much fun with SLi, especially my member's ride thread and have learned a lot from this forum. I see that you're new here so welcome!

[nepbug]

Whiteline front and rear end links installed. They've started using salt on the roads in Colorado so I might not know how these feel till spring.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/01/DSCN7390_zps2jhogueq-1.jpg (http://s422.photobucket.com/user/Heririck/media/DSCN7390_zps2jhogueq.jpg.html)

Yeah, I hate that they started using salt out here, seriously ticks me off.

[nepbug]

BTW, I forgot to ask, what rear diff are you running? Is it open, VLSD, CLSD or Torsen?

You're 3.90 final gearing, right? I have a 3.90 CLSD in my garage right now, that might get swapped into my Outback Sport project, but that could also be nice on the track.

[SLW-SVT]

Thanks very much! I'm having way too much fun with SLi, especially my member's ride thread and have learned a lot from this forum. I see that you're new here so welcome!

thanks! I need to post up a thread about my current project, a 97 outback that I'm trying to restore. I've already bought a wrecked limited for the interior and dash and now I'm looking at a 99 limited this weekend to steal most of the removable body parts off of...I;m having a blast though!

[Go Mifune]

thanks! I need to post up a thread about my current project, a 97 outback that I'm trying to restore.

I look forward to your thread! Do you live in a rust state? Only asking because it sounds like that with all of the parts cars. When living in Illinois, I was lucky to be able to store my good car in the garage during winter.


BTW, I forgot to ask, what rear diff are you running? Is it open, VLSD, CLSD or Torsen?

It's open AFAIK but have this fantasy of eventually doing a 4.44 final drive and LS diff with my current 5-speed. Probably will never happen but the 4.44 gears are still available; $345 through RalliSpec. Haven't priced labor but that will probably kill it right there.

[nepbug]

I look forward to your thread! Do you live in a rust state? Only asking because it sounds like that with all of the parts cars. When living in Illinois, I was lucky to be able to store my good car in the garage during winter.



It's open AFAIK but have this fantasy of eventually doing a 4.44 final drive and LS diff with my current 5-speed. Probably will never happen but the 4.44 gears are still available; $345 through RalliSpec. Haven't priced labor but that will probably kill it right there.

Maybe consider a 4.11 Outback or Forester transmission in the meantime. I think the only factory 4.44 5MT that is "easy" to get is the FXT 5MT from 2004 - 2008 (or the Baja turbo).

I think the rallispec kit you are referring to is this one, right?
http://www.rallispec.com/gea_syn_rst1141.html

That basically gives you the ratios of the JDM GD WRX. The US FXT 5mts have shorter 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears from that. First gear probably doesn't matter much unless you are doing autocross, really for bigger tracks it's going to be the third gear difference that you would notice, and it probably depends on the track as to whether the rallispec one is better or the forester one is.

Oh, and I don't believe that the rallispec kit come with the 4.44 ring and pinion, so you'd still need to source that.

I think you're best bet for 4.44 is the USDM FXT or Baja Turbo 5MTs or roll the dice with a JDM transmission.

For the best bang for your buck though, try a 4.11 Outback or Forester (non-turbo) 5MT. You can pull one out of a junk yard for $150 and then get a 4.11 rear diff for another $75 or so (might as well find a VLSD for it). That's a pretty cheap way to experiment with different gearing (assuming you do the swap yourself instead of at a shop).

Edit: I just looked at the rallispec kit again, it looks like that you buy the gears and then buy the install kit, so probably $1500 or so before labor.

[Go Mifune]

Maybe consider a 4.11 Outback or Forester transmission in the meantime.
I just looked at the rallispec kit again, it looks like that you buy the gears and then buy the install kit, so probably $1500 or so before labor.

Yeah, really kills that idea! There is a 4.11 tranny sitting fifteen feet from the Legacy right now in the form of my '96 Outback. Horrible amount of swap work but a possibility. Combined with slightly undersized tire height, ( they're slightly oversized now) this might be worthwhile.

[nepbug]

Yeah, really kills that idea! There is a 4.11 tranny sitting fifteen feet from the Legacy right now in the form of my '96 Outback. Horrible amount of swap work but a possibility. Combined with slightly undersized tire height, ( they're slightly oversized now) this might be worthwhile.
Yeah, and then there is the risk of taking down two cars at once instead of just one.

[peugoby]

To weigh in my lousy .02c no one asked for I'd personally stick with the 3.9 you have and look to add a limited slip rear differential at some point in time.

I have a 4.11 in my 2.2L 2nd gen gen wagon with a rear LSD and I really like it. It is great, the gears are extremely short so I'm never far from the engines limited power band. 1st gear goes by in a flash. On anything downhill I usually just feather start it in second. Second gear will barely get you to 50mph before you're hitting redline. I don't even know if you have can hit 70mph in 3rd!

With all that said I personally couldn't justify the amount of labor & cost associated it'd take to go from 3.9 to a 4.11 with that amount of power. I think money could be better spent elsewhere or deposited into a savings account for an engine swap further down the road.

[Go Mifune]

You're both right but a boy can dream. I'm getting better at working on the old wagon but that does seem like an awful amount of work. If I need a clutch and/or go with a lightweight flywheel some year, then it's a possibility. For now, I've got a couple more cheap weight reduction things to do plus saving for tires.

[SLW-SVT]

I look forward to your thread! Do you live in a rust state? Only asking because it sounds like that with all of the parts cars. When living in Illinois, I was lucky to be able to store my good car in the garage during winter.


I live in Texas but the car is from Teluride, CO so its rusty:( I have one wrecked Limited outback that is unrusted and I'm going to look at another Legacy wagon with a messed up motor this week to get all of the Outback delift stuff.

[MaroonRoo]

Spotted?! Highway 74 from Evergreen to Morrison?

[Go Mifune]

Yes, that was me. Haven't driven it since December 27th so the nice weather was the perfect excuse. Were you driving your wagon? I saw a maroon wagon months ago in North Evergreen with an SL-i sticker. Was that you?

[MaroonRoo]

It was not, I was on a white CB1000R motorcycle. One of my favorite passes on the bike, good friend of mine works at All Roos. Btw that thing is super clean! Props man!

[Go Mifune]

It was not, I was on a white CB1000R motorcycle. One of my favorite passes on the bike, good friend of mine works at All Roos. Btw that thing is super clean! Props man!

Yeah, I like those guys at All Roos and get gas there just so I can bug them with stupid questions. CB1000R, that's pretty hot! I've never had a bike and was itching years ago to get a Honda F600 but my wife pulled the plug on that idea real quick. Probably for the best as I was dangerous on four wheels back then let alone two.

[Go Mifune]

Went karting with Nepbug today! Maybe not Legacy related except: A-Drove the Legacy there. B- Kind of was practice for the track. C-With Nepbug who drove his sweet Forester XT. Being old and weak, I didn't do well but it was great fun! If we do this again I'll remember to charge up my camera.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyqb_AmFwIo

[nepbug]

Went karting with Nepbug today! Maybe not Legacy related except: A-Drove the Legacy there. B- Kind of was practice for the track. C-With Nepbug who drove his sweet Forester XT. Being old and weak, I didn't do well but it was great fun! If we do this again I'll remember to charge up my camera.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyqb_AmFwIo

Yeah, that was a fun time. I have a nice bruise on my back where the seat was banging against me. I need to get some dense foam to slip into the back of those racing suits, this happened to me last time too.

I figure we go for another 2 race session and you'll be qualified for the 9 hp karts and they should have the second of those karts built by then, then we'll try out those ones.

Watching the video, it is a shame that the battery died. The video shows you lifting off the throttle in places I know you were going flat-out later on. Dropping 4 seconds on your best lap was a huge improvement.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks for sending over the pics! Tylenol is my friend today; those karts killed my shoulders but worth it. I'd be up for the 9 hp karts after more practice as those yesterday sure were slow on the straights. Hope you don't mind but can't resist posting at least one embarrassing photo (Nepbug on right).

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/02/WB8nxhWl-1.jpg

[nepbug]

Haha, yeah, my shoulders were a bit sore today too, but I was trying to convince myself that it was because I split a bunch of wood in the afternoon too, i would've been fine otherwise :roll:. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it! LOL

[Muse]

Hahaha! awesome pic, guys!

You make me want to try out the new karting facility near me and Rkrenicki. But it's not cheap....

[Go Mifune]

Go for it! It worked out to $25 each for twelve minutes of track time. Not cheap in my present situation but as I get older, the memories become more valuable than the money.

[nepbug]

Go for it! It worked out to $25 each for twelve minutes of track time. Not cheap in my present situation but as I get older, the memories become more valuable than the money.

It was about that cost for each race for the two of us, since we did it twice we each got about 24 minutes of drive time for $25-$30, about a buck/minute, not too shabby. Not that I am going to try to go slower to get more for my money, lol.

I think you get a little less bang for your buck at the other tracks around, but I'm not sure. Unser Racing I've been to once, it's a shorter track with slower speeds and costs more, but it's smoother. There is another track near Centennial airport IIRC, no idea on it. Then I just learned that there are some indoor electric karts in Highlands Ranch, might be worth checking those out. Also, I'm pretty sure you can do karts at IMI motorsport complex, but those run $5-$7/lap (1 mile track or so).

My wife said she wants to try out karting at some point, I've got to take advantage of that enthusiasm while it lasts!

[Go Mifune]

Not that I am going to try to go slower to get more for my money, lol.

If you went say, 3 1/2 seconds per lap slower, my enjoyment would be greatly enhanced. After thinking about it, the prices are reasonable. It's just that my wallet is always thin this time of year. Buying tires may get delayed as I need to redeem myself at the kart track. I wouldn't expect to equal your time but within a second would be a worthwhile goal. I'm a slow learner but eventually the fog clears. I'll look up IMI as that sounds cool.

Something interesting is that driving my Legacy on track feels remarkably close to playing Gran Turismo in my living room but cornering the kart is so physical that the similarity falls away. I need a kart with power steering... and maybe a cup holder.

Do bring your wife karting! We had some women in the Porsche Club that were quite good drivers. I was hoping that Simona De Silvestro was going to make it in Formula One but something didn't mesh.

[nepbug]

If you went say, 3 1/2 seconds per lap slower, my enjoyment would be greatly enhanced. After thinking about it, the prices are reasonable. It's just that my wallet is always thin this time of year. Buying tires may get delayed as I need to redeem myself at the kart track. I wouldn't expect to equal your time but within a second would be a worthwhile goal. I'm a slow learner but eventually the fog clears. I'll look up IMI as that sounds cool.

Something interesting is that driving my Legacy on track feels remarkably close to playing Gran Turismo in my living room but cornering the kart is so physical that the similarity falls away. I need a kart with power steering... and maybe a cup holder.

Do bring your wife karting! We had some women in the Porsche Club that were quite good drivers. I was hoping that Simona De Silvestro was going to make it in Formula One but something didn't mesh.

Yeah, I think I might take her to the electric karts first as they are smoother, it'll beat her up less. I've got to ease her into the Bandimere karts, they beat the crap out of you and are pretty physically demanding. The last/first turn combo there is high speed and long, always feel it in the shoulders near the end of a session there.

I've got a friend that has an old racing kart that he doesn't really use much, I'm trying to see if there is anything I have that I could trade him, it would be fun to just pay the $40 daily fee and race as much as you want.

BTW, sorry for the Go-Karting hijack on your thread, but what else are we gonna do on a cold snowy day in the Rockies?

[Go Mifune]

I've got a friend that has an old racing kart that he doesn't really use much, I'm trying to see if there is anything I have that I could trade him, it would be fun to just pay the $40 daily fee and race as much as you want.

BTW, sorry for the Go-Karting hijack on your thread, but what else are we gonna do on a cold snowy day in the Rockies?

No worries. What happened to our February summer? Old racing kart? Would something like that fit in the back of a '96 Outback? I'm just asking for a friend:-)
Back to Subaru- While most on here are young and seem to want creature comforts, I'm ancient but after the Karting experience, I'm thinking my Legacy is too soft and quiet. There's no more sound deadening to remove so lots of poly bushings and maybe a side exit, aluminum race muffler. Is it June yet?

[nepbug]

No worries. What happened to our February summer? Old racing kart? Would something like that fit in the back of a '96 Outback? I'm just asking for a friend:-)
Back to Subaru- While most on here are young and seem to want creature comforts, I'm ancient but after the Karting experience, I'm thinking my Legacy is too soft and quiet. There's no more sound deadening to remove so lots of poly bushings and maybe a side exit, aluminum race muffler. Is it June yet?

LOL, yeah, my cars felt very plush after those karts too. Poly bushings, one of the best bang for you buck mods out there, do it!

Have you seen a complete kit anywhere, or will you be piecing together pieces from here and there?

[Go Mifune]

LOL, yeah, my cars felt very plush after those karts too. Poly bushings, one of the best bang for you buck mods out there, do it!

Have you seen a complete kit anywhere, or will you be piecing together pieces from here and there?

Likely to be a ten year project so one piece at a time. This year the focus will be track tires and to to try a twenty pound lighter amg battery. Much cheaper than a carbon hood. My shifter knuckle and bushings are toast so probably that.

I was thinking after seeing your Forester XT that of all the cars I've driven over the years, I've never even been in a boosted Subaru. Kinda weird.

[nepbug]

So, there's a guy in Boulder that has a totaled 2007 Forester XT 5mt, that's a 4.44 transmission. I can get his contact info if you are interested.

[Go Mifune]

So, there's a guy in Boulder that has a totaled 2007 Forester XT 5mt, that's a 4.44 transmission. I can get his contact info if you are interested.

Thanks Nick but my 9 year old computer is near death, so a trans swap is probably not happening this year.

I may have decided on tires though. Tire Rack liked the Falken RT615K as long lasting and easy to drive but slower than the Re71R. So Falken just released the new and improved, stickier RT615K+. And to top it off a $100 rebate. Of course I'll be the guinea pig. Oh, and 215/40/17.

If you watched my second video, you may have noticed a winged Corvette going by me in a blur. Well, my days of being the exclusive Legacy race wagon at HPR may be over. He's buying a 2000 Legacy wagon and doing (maybe) an STi swap. His question to me is if there's any way to fit a 255/40/17 on 9" wheels without having to use flares. My best guess is a 235 without major work but mine's a 2nd gen so FIIK. Any thoughts?

[nepbug]

Hmm, I'm not sure if those would fit. I would think with some sort of combos of fender rolling, correct offset and maybe coilovers that they would fit.

I think better people to ask would be Matty2Hotty and rkenicki, they've got some from that gen and might have fitted some wider wheels.

The widest I've run is 225/55R17 on some Oz Ultraleggeras 17x8 wheels with a +48 offset, that was cakewalk stuff there though, not doubt that they would fit

[Go Mifune]

Probably too late as he's about to order some 17x9 Rota Titans. He is compromising by going with a 245 width. His Z06 is just stupid fast and I think he's keeping it so not sure what his motivation is. Maybe he'll give me a ride.

I'm holding my breath waiting for the first review on those Falkens before the rebate expires. I've also found another cheap GoPro clone but with an external mic jack so no more rattling videos. The tire rebate will just about cover it. Of course I'm itching to get that 12 pound battery plus another round of karting would be nice. Stupid money:(

[Muse]

Have you got any advice for getting started racing? I'mean hoping to take my new Del Sol out to autocross this summer, and it seems like you have plenty of experience.

[Go Mifune]

Have you got any advice for getting started racing? I'mean hoping to take my new Del Sol out to autocross this summer, and it seems like you have plenty of experience.

Hi Muse! That sounds like fun and I hope you do it. My first advice is don't listen to anything I say. After that, what messed up my world every time were crappy brakes. Not knowing any better, I would run street fluid and pads and then just wait for the crash; so yes, brakes. I'm sure you know it but tires are hugely important, and expensive. On the other hand, some of my favorite memories occurred while driving on worn out tires and brakes.

I've done little to no autocross but have read that it's harder on the car than road courses. You're going to be thrown around in the car quite a bit so you might consider something like this: http://www.cg-lock.com/index.html

I'd say start by watching some autocross videos, don't mod the car (except brake fluid and pads if you can swing it) until you've already gone and decide you want to go again. Then you can get serious and spend all your money. It's a curse. The memories are great.

Some highlights: At a driving school, shifting in my seat (couldn't get comfy) and just like that, almost spinning a Formula Ford.
Driving my RX-7 at high speed into a cloud of dust containing a now invisible, spinning VW Beetle racer.
Getting beat up as a passenger in a B-Production Corvette roadster w/o a passenger seat. The good old days.
Inadvertently off roading my Shelby Charger at 70mph.
Almost blowing up the engine in my 911- shifting into 2nd at 90mph.
Spinning my 911 due to having a Carrera 4 driving up my butt.
My wife says I also spun the RX-7. Thanks honey!
Nepbug destroying me on the Kart track. Wait... not a highlight.

[Go Mifune]

Another milestone today, this time with my '96 EJ22 Outback Joey. He's had a hard life and keeps going without complaint. It might be time to replace the original struts. Other than regular maintenance items, a fuel pump, a recalled alternator and a transmission, Joey's all OEM.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/eVnpxs7l-1.jpg

[Muse]

My first advice is don't listen to anything I say
Okay, so... bleed the brakes and don't refill, cut the seat belts out of the car and get as much low as I can get with coilovers, or better yet, hockey pucks. Got ya.

[Go Mifune]

Okay, so... bleed the brakes and don't refill, cut the seat belts out of the car and get as much low as I can get with coilovers, or better yet, hockey pucks. Got ya.

My silly comment was a warning as I'm not considered an expert on pretty much anything. You are making a good point though. Removing the brake fluid, seat belts and suspension would reduce weight and I'm all for that! If you're that dedicated, you might as well remove all of the brake components since you already dumped the brake fluid

[Muse]

Pshh. Duh. What was I thinking? Of course, that would be better. Ultraleggerra Del Sol.

[Go Mifune]

Perfect day to order track tires! Extreme performance 215/40R17 Falken Azenis RT615K+, which will go on 17x8 Kosei K5Rs. No reviews yet on the new "+" tires so wish me luck.

In other news, I managed to lose my spline drive lug nut key- in my driveway!?. I then gutted the interior and the garage looking for it but nothing. Maybe I ate it. After frantic Google searches and help from a local car club, a proper replacement is in the mail.

[Go Mifune]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEet2oAUCO8&feature=youtu.be

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/EaRCpVoh-1.jpg

Known as the going to Costco wagon, I should note this pic. was taken at Costco.

[Go Mifune]

As of five days ago, I was planning my next track day which would be this coming Friday. The weather was expected to be 64 F and sunny. Fast forward to tonight where the track tires are coming off once again because the Friday forecast is now one to two feet of snow, on May 19th. They have to come off as cold weather will crack them. On the other hand, these tires have a level of grip far beyond the Sumitomos. Not even close. Saying that, I'd better improve four seconds per lap or I'm going to look kind of stupid, assuming the snow melts.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/dBP6lDsl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/06/qX4CQxtl-1.jpg

The snow is finally gone, so time for the spring brake flush and to put on the track shoes. Since there are no flat spots in Colorado, jacking up the car is always a challenge. This time, with the front of the car nicely in the air, the 1.5 ton race jack slowly fell over. Luckily, the lug nuts were finger tight and wheels still attached. Surprisingly, no damage done but time for a better floor jack. Went to Harbor Freight and picked up this Daytona jack. So much better!

Again, not knowing jack about jacks, I had bought one too small. Lesson learned. Now if it doesn't rain, the race wagon will make it's first track appearance of 2017 on June 24th.

[Go Mifune]

Episode 3 has landed. Viewable up to 1080p

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AglIilp0bEs&t=25s

[Go Mifune]

Moved weight reduction to page 1 so this is intentionally blank.

[Go Mifune]

My Feal front coilover boots became torn. Replacing them would require removal, rebuild, replace and an alignment. As it isn't driven in anything but dry weather, Feal agreed this would be an acceptable solution. They just velcro onto the spring.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/gYgOxzql-1.jpg

I want to be more aggressive with my brakes at the track and so installed the Grimmspeed master cylinder brace. This was recommended by several people here on SLi, so thanks! Haven't tested it properly as my wife and sick cat (he's going to be fine) were in the car. Didn't think it would be appreciated. Sadly, this did add one pound to the curb weight.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/QjExdRml-1.jpg

[Cookie Monster]

Were you able to sort out the shifter bushings? I have a '96 Outback and don't really know what shifter bushings to buy. I know I need a new pivot for sure but didn't want another OEM one...

[Go Mifune]

Were you able to sort out the shifter bushings? I have a '96 Outback and don't really know what shifter bushings to buy. I know I need a new pivot for sure but didn't want another OEM one...

It's been quite a while since I looked into this but IIRC, the aftermarket shifter knuckle from Turn In Concepts http://turninconcepts.com/tic-5mt-linkage-update.html won't work on our cars because: "This linkage update is for the pre-2006 Subaru 5MT that DO NOT have the external return spring. Subaru stopped using the external return spring sometime in 1998."

I'm fairly certain our cars have the external return spring and the TIC upgrade is the only one I'm aware of.

There may be a workaround for this as related by Chuckthefuk: "FACT! -> ALL Subaru 5MT linkages can be interchanged."

There's a lot of info in this thread but basically it seems you could take the entire linkage from a 2004 WRX -as an example- and install that in your car. Then the TIC shifter knuckle would definitely work, plus you could pick up an OEM short shifter for cheap.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/showthread.php?13842-5MT-Transmission-swap!!!-BD-BK-BG-5MT-gt-BE-BH-5MT

For the shifter stay bushings, I bought the Kartboy KB-003 front and rear but could only confirm that the rear is correct for the '97 Legacy.
I haven't done the repair yet as the job looks like a royal pain in the ass, plus I only go between 3rd and 4th on the track and haven't missed a shift yet. Of course I should do it eventually.

If anything I wrote here is wrong, I hope someone else corrects me. Let us know if you have success and welcome to the Forum!

[Cookie Monster]

It's been quite a while since I looked into this but IIRC, the aftermarket shifter knuckle from Turn In Concepts http://turninconcepts.com/tic-5mt-linkage-update.html won't work on our cars because: "This linkage update is for the pre-2006 Subaru 5MT that DO NOT have the external return spring. Subaru stopped using the external return spring sometime in 1998."

I'm fairly certain our cars have the external return spring and the TIC upgrade is the only one I'm aware of.

There may be a workaround for this as related by Chuckthefuk: "FACT! -> ALL Subaru 5MT linkages can be interchanged."

There's a lot of info in this thread but basically it seems you could take the entire linkage from a 2004 WRX -as an example- and install that in your car. Then the TIC shifter knuckle would definitely work, plus you could pick up an OEM short shifter for cheap.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/showthread.php?13842-5MT-Transmission-swap!!!-BD-BK-BG-5MT-gt-BE-BH-5MT

For the shifter stay bushings, I bought the Kartboy KB-003 front and rear but could only confirm that the rear is correct for the '97 Legacy.
I haven't done the repair yet as the job looks like a royal pain in the ass, plus I only go between 3rd and 4th on the track and haven't missed a shift yet. Of course I should do it eventually.

If anything I wrote here is wrong, I hope someone else corrects me. Let us know if you have success and welcome to the Forum!

Thank you! And thanks for the welcome. :)

I did know that our cars had the external spring, which is why I never bought the TIC pivot. I didn't know that the shifter linkages were all interchangeable, though. There's a bugeye 2.5RS in the junkyard. I'm going to see if I can take the shifter linkage from that, and then buy a TIC Holy Shift kit for the 2.5RS.

You're right, though, the job looks pretty terrible to do, especially if I put the stock 2.5RS linkage in, confirm it works, then take it all apart to install the updated bushings.

[Go Mifune]

I hate to mention this but you'd probably get a quick and definitive answer for the linkage question on the SL-i Facebook page.

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/TnFfaqwl-1.jpg

Deka ETX-12 AGM battery. Inexpensive way ($67) to lose twenty one pounds. Starts as easily as the 31 pound battery and weighs 9.8 pounds on my bath scale. Need to see if any issues arise, make a less janky hold down and possibly add a thermal blanket - not as big an issue since not a turbo. Should be below 2800 pounds full tank right now.

Sad news (for me). Stopped in to bother my alignment guy only to find out that he left to become a development driver for Tesla. So maybe he did know what he was talking about?

[Go Mifune]

Slightly better homemade battery tie down. Still a few adjustments to make but survived a fifty mile drive today.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/Ax2u6Oyh-1.jpg


And as five horsepower was wanted, a sticker.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/iuJKQ5Lh-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

On Friday, I got to practice with the World Racing League; not that they wanted me there necessarily. They're running 24 hours at High Plains this weekend.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/2ZM4swnh-1.jpg
The cars ranged from this Civic, which I wouldn't mind trying out...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/tQYp9SIl-1.jpg
to this BMW factory racer. At least that's the story.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/fIQ9bxOl-1.jpg
Here I am.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/08/KbqB4Jpl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Episode 4 has dropped!

https://youtu.be/ge2sn58Uqs0

[Go Mifune]

My video above shows on my desktop and Kindle but this and all of my previous videos here on SLi have disappeared from my iPod. Anyone else seeing just a blank space where the video should be? Any solution? The video does show up on other sites so not sure what's wrong. Thanks!

[Go Mifune]

Still crunching data from the last track day in August.
Comparing all horsepower readings at the end of the long straight gave some interesting results.
Top pic - The day in June (77 degrees F ambient) gave an average of 121.8 hp @ 5634 rpm and 204.6 F coolant temp.
Bottom - The day in August (88 degrees F ambient)gave an average of 117.8 hp @ 5687 rpm and 215.8 F coolant temp.
This pretty much confirms that cool air equals more horsepower. Everybody already knows this but it's nice to see it in action.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/HrEliTwm-1.jpg

Today, I found out the track is closing for the year on October 16th for repaving. This news got me hopping so EBC Bluestuff pads were ordered for one last attempt at hitting my goal for 2017. The Yellowstuff pads lasted for roughly 7k miles and four track days so I was pretty happy with them. EBC gets a lot of negative forum reviews but they worked well for me. There was no brake fade, even on the hot August track day. Perhaps the light weight and low horsepower combo made the difference. The Bluestuff are more aggressive so not expected to last as long but I need .8" badly.

Speaking of, doing side by side videos shows that I most likely lost .3" when this Miata passed me and .4" slowing for this corner. Not his fault that I backed off, I need to learn to keep my foot in it when behind people. It does give me hope that my goal is in sight. This was on my best lap of the day and my time was lackluster until after the Miata went away.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/kVZ79yIl-1.jpg

Last thing: After being away for nine days, the 9.7 pound ETX12 battery started the Legacy like brand new!

[Go Mifune]

Had to pick up the pads from Walgreens (long story) and drive down to Denver (3R Racing) for the fluid but got the brakes on today. So far they are quiet and stop even when cold. Only downer is that after taking off the Yellowstuff pads, they were in MUCH better shape than expected and easily could have done another track day. Don't tell my wife! Now to see how Bluestuff does at the track.

Update on the Grimmspeed MCB. With the old pads and my street tires, ABS engagement is there anytime you want it. Best $95 ever spent.

So far, my parts are green, gold, black, red, blue and silver. What do you think, purple?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/6U36qaWl-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/paCBa6Al-1.jpg

[Somac]

The color mashups are always fun! My rear suspension was yellow, pink, blue, silver, and black for a while. It adds character, lol.

[Go Mifune]

The track is being repaved so final chance at hitting the goal in 2017.

https://youtu.be/ZqvuKXkTwBg

[Chief]

Cool vid! very good quality!

[Somac]

Nice videos! Cool to see more people tossing these around some tracks! I hate that that koala joke made me laugh, haha.

[Go Mifune]

Cool vid! very good quality!

Thanks Chief! I think it's cool that someone from Moscow watched my video. I really enjoyed the pictures you posted of your road trip.

[Go Mifune]

Nice videos! Cool to see more people tossing these around some tracks! I hate that that koala joke made me laugh, haha.

I have another joke -even worse- ready if the chance ever comes along. I heard the Koala joke from an Australian stand-up comedian.

Not being an expert by any means, I'm still shocked by how well this car takes corners and how stable and balanced it feels. My 911 was an understeering pig by comparison, well...until it became an oversteering pig. The Bluestuff pads got me 75 feet further down the long straight before I had to brake; confirmed by watching side by side video. Absolutely epic!

Now the decision is if I want to toss this one around next year. The money isn't there for an engine swap so I might work on the suspension some more or sell it and get a Miata. 50/50 chance at this point.


https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/cIZdQb7h-1.jpg

[Somac]

For your goals, if you're serious about tracking, if it were me, I'd say forget about the Legacy and go for the Miata. They might be slow, but performance per dollar cannot be beat and they're the best way to get some real track time in. I did all handling and braking mods on my Outback so I could put it on track a few times before I save for a more capable car. Had a time attack guy instruct me and compliment how well the car handles and how he wishes his track mod E46 M3 gripped that well, but you'll always be held back by the weight and power. If you don't have any plans for an engine swap, then you'll always just be stuck in the slow group.

[Go Mifune]

For your goals, if you're serious about tracking, if it were me, I'd say forget about the Legacy and go for the Miata. They might be slow, but performance per dollar cannot be beat and they're the best way to get some real track time in. I did all handling and braking mods on my Outback so I could put it on track a few times before I save for a more capable car. Had a time attack guy instruct me and compliment how well the car handles and how he wishes his track mod E46 M3 gripped that well, but you'll always be held back by the weight and power. If you don't have any plans for an engine swap, then you'll always just be stuck in the slow group.

Kind of what I was thinking. I've been looking at Spec Miatas, not that I want to go racing but just trying to figure out why they are so quick. They're basically stock except for suspension and head work and 14 seconds per lap faster than me. Some of that is driving ability of course but no denying the Miata has much more potential. I had a '95 Miata -all stock- and it was the most fun I've ever had (alone) in a car. In the Legacy's favor, the other drivers get a real kick out of my wagon and not in a laughing at it sort of way. Also, today I added up everything spent on this car so selling it would be painful; plus a Legacy is much better for going to Costco. Since I just plan on continuing with the open lapping days and have no real goals either way, it's more of an emotional decision. Who knows?

[Chief]

Thanks Chief! I think it's cool that someone from Moscow watched my video. I really enjoyed the pictures you posted of your road trip.

Keep doing vids! Yeah, its cool that Subies bring together people from different continents! Thank you!

[Go Mifune]

Until further notice, I'll be keeping the Legacy; so the question is what to do for the next mod. The 2018 goal is to drop lap times by two or three seconds. The new pavement is supposed to help, so I'll be brave and commit to three. That would net a 2:22.2 driving a 2.2 NA.

1) There is an aluminum control arm kit sold by Superpro that gives extra caster, 20 mm wider track, bushings and ALK kit included. It fits the GC chassis so it should fit the BK? The down side is price - $650, plus would still need the bump steer kit, an alignment and probably a front fender roll. Let's say $1200 all in. I could do all the bushings and kits and just forget the alloy control arms but what fun would that be?

2) EL headers. The wagon desperately needs horsepower, even if it's only five. Would headers be good for five hp at the wheels on an EJ22? Much less expensive than the control arms and much less work. Downside, if there ever is an engine swap, the single port headers will end up on Craigslist. I want to mention Delta cams but I'd have to pull the engine, install the cams and put it all back without leaving extra parts. Nobody wants that!

3) 4.11 gears. On one of those Engineering Explained videos, Jason said that the increase in ratio equates to an equivalent increase in torque. So going from 3.90s to a 4.11 would be the same as a 5% engine torque increase. Cuts top speed slightly (don't care) and fuel economy (only 4000 miles per year, so don't care) plus higher revs on the highway and one more shift on the track but 5% isn't much and lots of work only to find my new junkyard tranny/diff. is garbage. There is the 4.44 but IIRC, it has different 1st through 5th gears which give not as big an improvement as it would suggest.

4) At the track, I asked Isaac -who has a time attack Corvette- about a front splitter for low horsepower cars. He pointed at an M3 behind me and said that they benefit from a splitter even though they're only putting about 200 to the wheels. I asked "What about 88 to the wheels?" He gave me a look that combined pity and boredom. Maybe not a splitter.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/D1ydOith-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Here's a teaser from the free track day last week. This is Daniel in the S-2000 and Brian in the FR-S. We're all running on street tires. The track is green, dusty and cold so no reason to wear out good tires. My video should be up by tomorrow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBLifQ5jG1g

[Go Mifune]

This should be my last chance to complain about having only 137 HP, as my Inferno Fabrication headers are on the way. So 140 HP?
This track day was stupid fun but also stupid slow due to the track conditions.

https://youtu.be/Js-tUdV0gX4

[kcowles]

This should be my last chance to complain about having only 137 HP, as my Inferno Fabrication headers are on the way. So 140 HP?
This track day was stupid fun but also stupid slow due to the track conditions.

https://youtu.be/Js-tUdV0gX4



Inferno Fab headers are awesome. I've got the stainless steel ones on my wagon for almost 3 years now. Bolt right up, no complaints. I got the UEL's they sound amazing!

[Go Mifune]

That's good to know. I was wondering how you are as you don't post much lately. Welcome back!

I'm desperate to lower lap times and thought these were worth a try. Mine will be equal length. I'll know if they make a difference because my car always (with good track conditions) does 94 mph on the long straight. Anything higher than that and I'll probably start weeping with joy. Did you wrap them and do you have to pass emissions?

[Tylerhartman]

I feel like you should have decent luck finding a 4.11 Ratio Transmission in good shape, just use the logic me and my friends use. If the car is wrecked, chances are it was running when it was wrecked :) Besdies there's quite a few 4.11's floating around

Loving the build so far, I love MX5's but this is just begging for you to save some pennys for a few years and throw an EJ205 Swap in it.

or a High Comp 2.2L with Cams, Etc..

[kcowles]

That's good to know. I was wondering how you are as you don't post much lately. Welcome back!

I'm desperate to lower lap times and thought these were worth a try. Mine will be equal length. I'll know if they make a difference because my car always (with good track conditions) does 94 mph on the long straight. Anything higher than that and I'll probably start weeping with joy. Did you wrap them and do you have to pass emissions?


I chose not to wrap the headers. I have heard stories of people wrapping headers and they crack months later with heat and moisture getting trapped. I have to pass emissions but in Maryland, they just look for no check engine light, which headers shouldn't affect.

[Go Mifune]

I feel like you should have decent luck finding a 4.11 Ratio Transmission in good shape, just use the logic me and my friends use. If the car is wrecked, chances are it was running when it was wrecked :) Besdies there's quite a few 4.11's floating around

Loving the build so far, I love MX5's but this is just begging for you to save some pennys for a few years and throw an EJ205 Swap in it.

or a High Comp 2.2L with Cams, Etc..

Thanks Tyler! I'm hoping to swap the transmission later this year. Unfortunately, all of my suspension bushings are original with 135k miles so I think that's my next project. Well, once the headers are on.

I'm still thinking I might get those Superpro control arms mentioned in post #166 above. I'll have to see how the cash situation looks this spring.

[Tylerhartman]

I know the feeling :( Mines at 137K and the frontend is pretty fresh with WL Rack Bushings, LCA Bushings, New Ball Joints, Sway Bar end links, etc... The rear needs attention though. I can't decide if I want to do WL Adjustable lateral links or just get some Fresh bushings and refresh what I've got here, or just pickup a lightly used set of JDM STI pink links with the upgraded factory bushings.

If you end up not doing the Superpro arms, Not sure if you've seen the mod to the STI Arms to add more castor, plus STI arms will add 10mm total track width as well and would be way cheaper then the SuperPro. You could get an STI Subframe, Alloy Arms and maybe even a steering rack for 650 if you found a good deal and felt like doing the install work and would be closer to Turbo EJ swapping at some point ;) Plus the STI Subframe suppodely is braced better, no idea if it's true i've never looked into it 100%


Also Sidenote, Wrapping headers scares me a little. Although I keep my cars in decent check I feel, if your pan gasket or cam gear started leaking oil and didn't know I'd wick into the heat wrap you'd have a bad day :( My Up pipe is coated with a ceramic coating and my DP I heat wrapped since it's farless likely to get oil spilled onto it



Thanks Tyler! I'm hoping to swap the transmission later this year. Unfortunately, all of my suspension bushings are original with 135k miles so I think that's my next project. Well, once the headers are on.

I'm still thinking I might get those Superpro control arms mentioned in post #166 above. I'll have to see how the cash situation looks this spring.

[Go Mifune]

Now with part numbers in hand, the Superpro arms, an alignment and all other pieces will run about $1250. Keeping my arms will be less than $700. Going the cheaper way will allow me to afford the header ceramic coating so I'll probably just do that. I'll have to think about the STi alloy arms a bit more. Tomorrow, I may have a completely different opinion:-)

I don't know enough about the rear adjustable arms to say anything intelligent about them. My rear suspension doesn't seem to be the problem, even with the old bushings.

[Go Mifune]

Update-Can't decide on my control arm dilemma so ordered steering rack bushings and the Whiteline bumpsteer correction kit KCA313 to hold me over.
There are two sizes made for the passenger side rack bushing. If it measures 25mm wide like mine (apologies for my rack looking so grungy), you want Whiteline KSR200. If 30mm wide, KSR202.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/01/lW6mm2Xl-1.jpg

[ctbrighton]

the top of those bolts are pretty exposed so expect a good amount of rust, ie use an impact gun.

[Somac]

Honestly, I'd save yourself some money and skip getting any fancy header or wrap or coating. You really won't see any kind of improvement compared to spending money elsewhere. If they were some Killer B or Tomei ELHs I'd say yeah, but otherwise, refreshing your suspension will be a better idea.

I have the BH5 aluminum front LCAs that are the same as the GC STI arms and I'd definitely recommend them for the price compared to a $650 kit.

[Go Mifune]

Actually, the Inferno Fab headers have a very strong reputation among engine builders; and they are equal length. Just don't know if any headers on an EJ22 will help. The wrap or ceramic is more to pass emissions. Colorado is pretty tough and I don't have any info on pass/no pass with headers.

Does the BH have aluminum control arms? I didn't know that. I still haven't decided on the alloy arms -and will probably just get my bushings replaced- but it gives me something to worry about until spring when it's warm enough to work in the driveway:-)

Meanwhile, I picked up a 2003 WRX shift linkage with the Kartboy short shifter; also not getting installed till spring.

[Somac]

I should have specified I was talking about extra pricey turbo ELHs in a higher power setup where you'd see a bigger benefit from the coated/wrapped parts and can justify 'balling out' on them. Not knocking Inferno at all, but rather just balancing cost vs. benefits. Headers won't really do much for you, unfortunately.

JDM 3rd gens have aluminum control arms identical to JDM GC arms that will work for you, too. Just as an alternative to an aftermarket brand. I've still got mine sitting here while I decide on getting the Whiteline ALK or not and I'll swap everything at once.

[Go Mifune]

May I ask what you paid for the JDM control arms? You sparked another question for me. The SuperPro alloy arms advertise increased castor but they also come with ALKs so I suspect that's where they're getting the increased castor.

We have a place in Denver that sells used Subaru parts and while in there this week, I saw a set of aluminum control arms.. I think I'll ask about them tomorrow. I'm enjoying the conversation!

[ctbrighton]

you don't want JDM control arms, you want ~05-07 STi control arms that add caster

[Go Mifune]

you don't want JDM control arms, you want ~05-07 STi control arms that add caster

Thanks! Pat Olsen told me the same thing. He tracks a Legacy and has the caster adding arms. Do you think I would need the GD type (longer) front sway bar or get by keeping mine?

[ctbrighton]

my front bar and endlinks are still stock, but i would atleast get some solid adjustable links. i bought the whiteline universal (ie cut your own) links but never got around to actually cutting them to length.

[Reuben]

The JDM ‘short’ control arms are great, I’ve Installed many, and you get a greatly increased turn in feel with them, and they’re a direct bolt in, no messing with stuff like your wheel base to make them work. They sell anywhere from $100/arm to $300/arm here in NZ. They were optional as a catalogue item from as far back as 1990, were standard on some versions of the GC WRX, and I think all GC STi’s. They then became standard on the BH/BE GT/RS’s, and GT30/RS30’s.

Another great mod to go with the alloy arms is a Cusco K-brace. Have a look on croooober, I seen k-braces up for like $20 (poor condition, but totally functional).

I’ve installed alloy arms on the beast, my BC sedan, my partners GC8, and my mates 91 BC5 GT had them optioned from factory along with some optional 19mm sway bars and STi stickers (it’s not an STi model) (I found all those parts in the 92 STi catalogue)

[Tylerhartman]

What he said ^^ I bought a set of BE5 Alloy arms for around $120 Shipped from Russia. He charges a little more than that now, but I'll pass his contact info to you if you'd like

The K-Brace is on my list along with swaybars

[Go Mifune]

Is this the K-brace and is it a direct bolt-on for the BK?

https://www.jspecauto.com/engine_details/1813/1993-2001_subaru_cusco_lower_front_subframe_brace_for_subaru_impreza_gc8_sti_1993-2001

[Go Mifune]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/02/mrJEpMxh-1.jpg

[Sub-Goon]

Those new parts should help!

[Reuben]

Is this the K-brace and is it a direct bolt-on for the BK?

https://www.jspecauto.com/engine_details/1813/1993-2001_subaru_cusco_lower_front_subframe_brace_for_subaru_impreza_gc8_sti_1993-2001



Yes, geometry wise, bolts straight in, no fitting kit needed. Non turbos have clearance issues with the exhaust though. You’ll have to chop a section out of the exhaust and go over the brace. Turbs don’t have that issue, the down pipe clears behind the brace nicely.

[Go Mifune]

Bought more Whiteline stuff: motorsport version ALK and front bushings for the front lower control arms.

I'm backing off on the alloy arms for now, since I can't seem to pull the trigger.. Instead, I'm looking at getting racing harnesses. My old body is cramping up since I've gotten to 1g on the track. It was comfy at .9g but 1.0 is giving me terrible cramps. Since harnesses are a no-no without a roll bar, today I took the Legacy to 3R Racing to get an estimate started for one. I want something basic but there was a BRZ getting a full cage and it was like, "Oh, that would be nice!" and "Yes, I would like that." Their fabrication guy was out of town so they took pictures and will get back to me. Now just hoping I can afford it. Also got honked at (in a friendly way) by a guy in a blob eye WRX. Either he liked my car or I need a haircut;-)

[Go Mifune]

Today I did part one of seven... or something. Installed the Whiteline steering rack bushings and it was an absolutely miserable experience. Getting the bolts off was cake but everything after, not so much. I did disconnect the steering column and took others advice to remove the right side bushing and leave everything loose, then concentrate on the left side. I was able, using pry bars, to move the left bracket towards the center of the car. Half way through, I was worried I couldn't do it, but once it was done, started planning part two, which should be the shifter assembly. How do the new bushings feel? Don't know. I've developed some inner ear thing where laying on my back and looking straight up makes me extremely nauseated, so I'm too ill to drive. This started last year and hasn't gone away so the shifter assembly should be fun.

Here's the driver's side bracket, forced over towards the center.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/03/cwoldMml-1.jpg
And most of the tools used.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/03/kFHqOFil-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Now with 2003 WRX shifter assembly and Kartboy short shifter.
Wow, this was one mod that didn't disappoint. The shift throw feels like 1/3rd of what it was and no more side to side wobble. Lots of work and was only able to get it done thanks to the forum and watching loads of Youtube DIY videos.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/03/4XxHUCLl-1.jpg

Many have done this but how many have cleaned and waxed their transmission crossmember while they were down there?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/03/KfNDJOkm-1.jpg

Also installed the Kartboy transmission mount bushings. I'm waiting on the transmission and engine mounts until I decide how hard core it should be. The only negative today is that I gave up trying to loosen the downstream O2 sensor. Even using the MAPP gas torch failed.

Update- Went medieval with that torch and finally got the O2 sensor loose. Now to wait for the "not ready" to go off. Also measured the change in shift throw. The OEM setup was 4" from 3rd to 4th. The Kartboy short shifter reduced that to 2".

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/03/ZUhwEQpl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

The Whiteline adjustable lateral links and Turn-in-Concepts race-hardness trailing arm bushings are installed. Went well except for one bolt which is stripped. I'm anxious to drive it but the bolt from Subaru won't arrive till tomorrow. While down there, the differential cover was polished. If all goes well, I'll start the front suspension next week.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/04/x2YTrkGl-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/04/tbdn0Y4l-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Spring cleaning prior to installing new parts.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/04/jFpFeaRl-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/04/N1nsmeel-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Front suspension is done and the car is on the ground for the first time in five weeks!

-Whiteline front control arm bushings W51709A
-Whiteline anti-lift kit, motorsport version KCA319M
-Whiteline bump steer correction kit KCA313
And while down there, the Inferno Fabrication header was installed.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/05/0ihPMzUh-1.jpg

In a controversial move, I also went ahead with a power steering delete. The rack conversion was done by CVJ Axles in Denver. They also supplied a needed rebuilt subaru axle. I've read negative things about the aftermarket axles so was happy to find them.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/04/N1nsmeel-1.jpg

I drove it for the first time today with the new front and rear parts. Since I've only done a string alignment and I think I torqued everything, the drive was slow. All I can say for now is that it hasn't ruined the ride. The only negative is that I bought a new OEM style front cat but it wouldn't quite line up. Next thing is an alignment and probably a corner weighted alignment. Then I'm thinking of getting that cat to fit by having a new catted mid-pipe fabricated. Our Colorado emissions are pretty tough.

[Huffer]

Love the car. Reminds me of my old BK. Miss that thing, so chuckable into corners and happy to rotate the tail on the way out.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks Huffer. Didn't know you had one. What did you do for an engine?

I kept telling my wife that the new mods were going to make it almost undriveable. Now I'm disappointed that it didn't live up to the hype.

[Huffer]

Thanks Huffer. Didn't know you had one. What did you do for an engine?

I kept telling my wife that the new mods were going to make it almost undriveable. Now I'm disappointed that it didn't live up to the hype.

I just had a stock EJ25D, DOHC all that jazz. Never got to do my SOHC + Delta Cam conversion before I was rear-ended and the car was written off.

[Go Mifune]

Not good but at least it's short.

https://youtu.be/KmYauWQalHk

[Go Mifune]

Long time since last update. Haven't been to High Plains Raceway since my disastrous track day June 1st. My next goal is to pass emissions so new cats, 02 sensors, plugs, air filter and spark plug wires. The old mid pipe looked pretty rough and had who knows how many miles on it. Colorado has very strict laws and in some ways, tougher than California, so I'm going all out. Tomorrow I'm driving down to Denver w/o catback to have it adjusted and reattached. Wish me luck as noise ordinances seem to be big right now. The new header and cats w/o catback are much louder than the OEM sans catback. Maybe I'll pick up a horsepower! In other news, Trackaddict has been added to be able to see lap times as they happen. My old timer has digits too small to read. Hoping to be back on track in October.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/09/NwOPl7rl-1.jpg

[peugoby]

That was an entertaining watch around the track. I' surprised you deleted the power steering. How does it feel at speed? I can imagine it must be a bit to hustle at parking lot speeds. I never personally felt like it was overly assisted. I'd love to get out and do track days like you're doing. My current car would need a lot more to it just to feel safe at speed like you're doing.

[Go Mifune]

That was an entertaining watch around the track. I' surprised you deleted the power steering. How does it feel at speed? I can imagine it must be a bit to hustle at parking lot speeds. I never personally felt like it was overly assisted. I'd love to get out and do track days like you're doing. My current car would need a lot more to it just to feel safe at speed like you're doing.

I went back and forth over the PS delete but it can always be reversed. It was done properly with a modified rack. It's a 2760 pound car with fairly narrow tires (215/40/17) and low horsepower (0?). I wouldn't recommend it on a full weight Sti. As mentioned in the video, I used to get just horrible cramps towards the middle of a track day. I decided I needed harnesses and a roll bar and was quoted roughly $2300 by a Denver race shop. Happily, I had zero cramps the last time out and I'm pretty sure it was because of the PS delete. I don't have to tighten up my body to hold onto the steering wheel like before. If you ask anyone else at the track, I've never been "at speed" but thanks for saying that! It is awful below 5 mph but above that, it's perfect. I actually enjoy driving it more than before; even on the street.

After another track day, I may have a better feel for why my laps were slower. Probably just the five months between with no practice. Could be worse.

I'm sure your BMW could handle it. The only downsides are: your hood will get sandblasted and your back seat will fill up with chunks of other people's tires, you may crash, break down or roll, and friends will avoid you because they just know you're going to talk about track days.

[Go Mifune]

Drove down to Denver to get my catback extended to fit up to the new cats. The shop's credit card machine was down so they loaned me a white 1980s Bronco to go to my bank to get cash. One block from the shop, I noticed the gas gauge was on absolute zero. Thought to myself that the gauge was most likely broken. Thirty seconds later, the Bronco began to shudder. Having worked at a dealership for thirteen years, my training kicked in and had it parked before its final gasp. An employee had borrowed it the night before and brought it back empty (another dealership skill). The manager drove me to the bank, gave me a discount on the work and I drove towards home. Twenty five miles from the muffler shop, I discovered a remote control and strange keys in my pocket; for the Bronco. Another drive to Denver. On the positive side, the check engine light is off for the first time in two years, the Magnaflow cats are louder than stock and my butt dyno says I may have picked up one horsepower. Of course, butt dynos are liars.

DMV hack: Went into the DMV and noticed a sign saying that those dressed in uniform will be served first. I asked the woman at the counter if that included Starfleet uniforms. She said she didn't know what that was, but yes if it's a branch of the military. I know what I'm wearing to the DMV from now on!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/09/sO5VLtfl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Another track day. Better result this time.

https://youtu.be/73n4JX-HydA

[2002jm]

Really enjoyed reading your thread; go some great ideas too:)
jm

[Go Mifune]

Thanks! Do you have a build thread?

[2002jm]

Suppose to be picking up a 99 legacy gt limited this next week; will post a build thread as soon as possible:)
thanks,
jm

[Go Mifune]

Episode 9: Free track day in Colorado

https://youtu.be/QqW-FmzQIvc

[Go Mifune]

Torque Solutions solid pitch-stop mount. Because you can never have enough NVH. I can finally hear my starter motor like I'm wearing it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/01/yAYFeC9l-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

After nearly five years, finally found a decent hood from a '99 Outback. It weighs 2.4 pounds more than the flat hood, and it still needs to be painted so that's next. Still weighs less than a BRZ.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/03/l7E8qP9l-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

Added this "Type-R style front bumper lip for Acura Integra 1998-2001" from Amazon. $46
Had to trim it at the wheel wells.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/05/7Crc38jl-1.jpg

You can -sort of- see the lip from the side here. Putting the street wheels on after a track day.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/05/lsunFvPl-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/4ITWi3SXDQc

[Go Mifune]

Had a fun day and met a LeMans winner who is also the son of a motorsports legend.

https://youtu.be/k9eAyMXymxc

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/U-4dnMQE1QU

[Go Mifune]

Pic from the June track day. My friend Ken's 1978 Fairmont parked behind.
Track tip: I always like to park close to the loo just in case.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/07/ONJeM7Mh-1.jpg

[Muse]

Looking good with the lip. Just went ahead and actually subscribed to your channel. because I'm that idiot who only just realized that its a thing.

[Go Mifune]

Thanks Muse. Don't feel too bad about the subscription thing. My cat is constantly walking on my keyboard and in doing so. finding features I didn't know existed. Also waiting for pics of your new Legacy!

[Go Mifune]

Had my hood painted Ditzler Hot rod black.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/07/klAVVBah-1.jpg

[Muse]

Now that looks angry.

[Go Mifune]

Now that looks angry.
Certainly this will make me as fast as the Corvettes... Hopefully it won't make me slower and overheat.

[Muse]

Certainly this will make me as fast as the Corvettes... Hopefully it won't make me slower and overheat.

Certainly not. How can it? Its wicked cool. And cool implies lower temperatures, right? That's how that works, I'm sure of it.

[Go Mifune]

Certainly not. How can it? Its wicked cool. And cool implies lower temperatures, right? That's how that works, I'm sure of it.

Your logic is perfect! After all, space is dark and cool.

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/t7L2oceCShA

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/sk4Yv0nBD3A

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/10/6kYPJDOh-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2019/10/t4qUESLh-1.jpg

[Muse]

������������������
Nooooooooo!!!!!

[Muse]

So, I've recently gone and bought myself a drawing tablet, and in an effort to develop a steady hand, I'm tracing pictures of cars. And guess who gets to be the first one in my sights?

[Go Mifune]

So, I've recently gone and bought myself a drawing tablet, and in an effort to develop a steady hand, I'm tracing pictures of cars. And guess who gets to be the first one in my sights?

Muse, this is just awesome! Thank you. I really like the detailing on the wheels and love that you left out the door dings. I hope this new hobby leads to big things for you!

[Go Mifune]

A small thing but the 9.5 pound ETX 12 battery in the Legacy is now 2 1/2 years old. After sitting for a month, it started on the first try. This one mod dropped 21 pounds off the front of the car. The car got a bath and will probably stay parked till spring.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2020/02/mSiujg8l-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

I had the Legacy for sale last fall with mixed emotions about selling it. Luckily, there were no takers so I had the chance to once again do a track day. The video is a long one but the track was busy and I think you'll find it more entertaining than my previous efforts.

https://youtu.be/CQfH_jhT6Rs

[Go Mifune]

Kumho V700 50 TW tires. 500 on track and about 1000 total miles. The brake pads are also toast so probably the end of my season.
On a lighter note, I've now passed three years running my car on a nine pound ATV battery.
Had to replace both of my front wheel bearings this fall.
No other mods this year.
That is all.

https://youtu.be/dR4y9vqK0So

[Go Mifune]

Some pics from the October track day. Now I'm pondering what if anything can be done for next year to lower lap times on a very meager budget.
Upper left: Cobra Daytona Coupe, but it's a kit. Center left: The Ford behind my wagon is my friend Ken's daily driver 1967 Fairlane.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2020/12/ThAcOMLh-1.jpg

My wagon at turn 2.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2020/12/XIV7MQEh-1.jpg

[98legwag]

Did you ever put a rear LSD in the wagon?

[Go Mifune]

Did you ever put a rear LSD in the wagon?

No, I might if I changed out the axle ratio to a 4:11 but that sounds like a pain.

I've been noticing your Miata. I had a '95 and although it wasn't the fastest car I've owned, it was the most fun. I like NCs but have never driven one. How do you like it?

[98legwag]

No, I might if I changed out the axle ratio to a 4:11 but that sounds like a pain.

I've been noticing your Miata. I had a '95 and although it wasn't the fastest car I've owned, it was the most fun. I like NCs but have never driven one. How do you like it?

Its fun to drive. It has the normal NC issue of the 2nd gear synchro being difficult until the car is up to normal operating temperature. And the AC has a leak I need to find. My friend's shop put dye in the refrigerant so it should be easier to find. With the coilovers, sticky tires, and exhaust the car is a blast to drive. Sadly there were really no events to make it to this year around here. Hopefully that will be different in 2021.

[Go Mifune]

It’s been ten long months since the Legacy has been on track. I’m scheduled to get there next Friday, and eager to try the wider tires. Other than playing Gran Turismo 5, I’m horribly out of practice, so not expecting to break records, but I am curious if the Outback front will cost any top end, as it looks rather draggy. The car will weigh about 45 lbs. heavier due to the new tires and reinstalling the passenger seat and belts.
On a positive side, the new tires are very close to stock height, so I’ll no longer have to multiply mph by .9794 to find the correct speed.

What’s been done this year:

Nankang AR-1 100 tw tires. The old Kumhos were 215/40/17. These are 235/40/17 with orange painted Kosei wheels
People in Europe and Australia give these Nankangs good reviews. Very rare in the states so I’ve volunteered as a guinea pig.

More aggresive alignment: LF -2.6, (maxed out) RF -2.9 and the rears at -2

Fender roll all around

Outback front bumper painted black with inlets installed for 3” brake ducts or cold air intake

Group N transmission mount

Rear diff outrigger bushings

New replacement EBC Bluestuff brake pads front & rear

RF caliper was seized from sitting so a new one, fluid flush and a repaint of all of the calipers

Partial header wrap - pipe was very close to the lower radiator hose

What didn’t get done:

A higher front tow hook (see pic below)—the front is so low that if I need a tow on track, it doesn’t look good for the Outback bumper

A noisy muffler. If you paint your wheels a shouty orange, you should have an obnoxious exhaust to match

An even sillier decal to go with the Nankang, but I'll wait for hopefully good lap times before embarrassing myself further

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/x8fN4xZl-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/jGDE1a6l-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/rbPxKU2l-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/b1J2L3Dl-1.jpg

If anyone knows a point on the front that is strong enough for a tow hook, I sure would appreciate it.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/KGPHCqkl-1.jpg

[lord flashheart]

Dang this is a pretty sweet build man!
Im not much of a suspension guru but im trying to sort the suspension out on my car. I might have to hit you up with questions.
great build man!

[Go Mifune]

Dang this is a pretty sweet build man!
Im not much of a suspension guru but im trying to sort the suspension out on my car. I might have to hit you up with questions.
great build man!
Thanks! My fancy paint and Outback bumper did not help with lap times. I'm still working on a video but it looks like ten months off was most of the problem. For your radiator question, have you looked at what people with EJ and EG swaps have used? Feel free to ask suspension questions. I think my car handles very well but it's so hard to tell when every car on the track is completely different with different tires and wildly different driver skill levels. I almost fell over when a guy told me his 650 at the wheels Mustang was running 400 tw tires.

[Go Mifune]

So I may have lost one mph on the straights. Why is a difficult question since I changed the aero on the car with the Outback bumper and the wider tires at the same time. Also, the tires are 3.5 pounds heavier each and being taller, effectively changed the gearing for the worse. Still, the ten months off track made the biggest difference. Going 71 mph through turn 4 this time, felt quite exciting when I had done that same corner last October at 78.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/FUVEP6dh-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/r1vlu8Bh-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/wWbCC4dh-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2021/08/QcsDRADh-1.jpg

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/6DK4-8tlzB8

[Go Mifune]

https://youtu.be/Iq97UCORW8M

[mike-tracy]

Sniff sniff, nice video. Good bye Kobayashi

[lord flashheart]

but whyyyyyy?

[Go Mifune]

I've told people that that there were about fifteen reasons. A major one being that we may be moving and don't know if track days are in my future. Another is that the Legacy was maxed out unless I could afford to do something with the engine, and I can't. I'm very sad about selling it but I think it was time.

[lord flashheart]

more power is easy and cheap in Subarus. Especially when you're starting with an EJ22 LOL. Well, I'm sorry to hear that.
Just out of sheer dumb curiosity... How much are you asking for it?

[Go Mifune]

It's already sold and I'd rather not say what I sold it for; it's just too painful LOL. It was for sale last summer, with a total of zero interest from buyers, so I put it up again a month ago for quite a bit less. It sold for pennies on the dollar.

I had thought about boosting my EJ22 but engines are not my strength. I would have needed help and I couldn't even hire someone to roll my fenders. Another reason is that the track I was driving on eats turbo EJs for breakfast. It became a running joke. "Which Subaru is going to explode today?"

[xrayspecs]

sad to see this ones story end here, but glad you documented the fun times you had with the build. hopefully at some point you get to do another one!

[Go Mifune]

sad to see this ones story end here, but glad you documented the fun times you had with the build. hopefully at some point you get to do another one!

I had some great times with the Legacy, and still have 20 track videos, hundreds of photos and all the memories. If things settle down next summer, I should be looking for a '91 to '93 Miata; ideally with a Rotrex sc. I loved my '95 M Miata (but not enough POWER) and hope to get something similar.

[xrayspecs]

hopefully with lots of flying miata and 949 racing go fast parts!

[lord flashheart]

When you do, let me know. Horsepower is kinda my thing.