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View Full Version : 3rd Generation Sedan (BE) Rougeben's 03 Legacy L - TOTALLED. RIP. PARTS REQUESTS?



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rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:14 PM
I keep forgetting to start a page here, I have all these pics in photobucket, may as well post them all in on thread :grin:

Ok so to break it down.

Welcome to my 2003 Legacy L 'Se'...yeah Special edition...whatever...well it is now :lol:

Was a 5mt. 70k miles when I got it in 05, has going on 120+k on it right now. First major purchase I ever made with my hard-earned money :grin:

4/18/14: Crashed the car...

quicklist of stuff done to it (copy/paste straight from my service log):
Engine:
-Openecu dyno tuned @ SpeedIndustry in Detroit... 257whp/247wtq on a Mustang dyno
-04 WRX EJ205 w/ VF23 @ 19psi
-GT Spec UP
-STi 'pink' 550cc injectors
-STi fuel pump
-Helix 3" catted DP
-Turboxs fuel rails
-Hallman Pro RX MBC
-SSAC WRX/STi FMIC
-Greddy Type-S BOV on recirculate
-KN intake
-S&B "power stack" air filter
-PnP stock exhaust manifold
-PnP throttlebody
-Gimmick MS Silicone intake tube
-Hondata intake manifold phenolic spacers
-TGV deletes
-Lightened crank pulley
-one-step colder NGK iridium plugs
-3" catback, dynomax resonator/summit racing muffler
-Group N Pitch Mount
-Group N Engine Mounts
-Forge Blue Anodized Catchcan
-WRX intake scoop (modified)
-Launch control
-Flat footed shifting
-Front bumper cooling ducts...

Drivetrain:
-2005 STI 6 speed transmission
-BE Automatic driveshaft
-3.9FD rear diff w/VLSD
-05 STI 6 speed knob
-Group N 6 speed transmission mount
-Gruppe-S 14lb lightened flywheel/ stock sti clutch
-Kartboy transmission xmember bushings and shifter pivot bushings
-DCCDpro controller

Cooling:
-Megan Racing 2-row Aluminum Radiator (WRX/STI fitment)
-Perrin Silicone Radiator hoses (WRX/STI, plug and play!)
-OEM thermostat

Suspension:
-IPD 22mm rear sway bar, Whiteline HD endlinks.
-Whiteline 22mm front swaybar w/ Kartboy endlinks
-05 STi Steering rack
-05 STi crossmember
-05 STi aluminum control arms
-STi Genome front strut brace
-Cusco rear strut brace
-WRX subframe H-brace
-Bilstein JDM shocks/OEM GT springs/Whiteline Comp C strut tops/ 1/4" paranoid fabrications spacers

Brakes:
-1991 (rebuilt) Nissan 300zx/R32 Skyline 4 pot front aluminum calipers w/Speedbleeders, Stoptech street pads.
- Global Z Nissan 300zx caliper bracket adapters
- DBA 4000 slotted 05+ Legacy GT 12.3" front rotors, 11.4" rear rotors
-Nissan 300zx 2pot rear calipers w/ Kartboy adapter brackets, Stoptech street pads
-Goodridge SS brakelines

Interior:
-Lancer Evolution VIII Recaro front seats w/ wedge engineering/recaro seat bases
-Flat black interior panels (GET OUT FAKE WOOD)
-WRX aluminum pedals
-2006 WRX 3 spoke steering wheel
-Alpine MP3/CD headunit w/ remote & RCA-Mini headphone jack
-Subaru Tweeter speaker kit/ Pioneer speakers 2ways in front, JBL 3-ways in rear
-VDO boost gauge
-Prosport EGT gauge, Megan Oil Press & Oil Temp; DIN mounted
-Passenger seat fire-extinguisher bracket
-Dynomat interior, trunk, hood

Exterior:
-Infiniti FX35 HID bixenon headlight retrofit (ala Khanfucious)
-PIAA 2100 driving lights w/ HID 3000k ballasts
-Lip trunk spoiler (m3 style)+ code:19x
-Home Depot Lip Ver.2 (no more Mustang Mach 1 lip :()
-Outback front fenders w/ "turbo man" fender decals
-"Turbocharged" trunk badge (from a Cobalt SS)
-Extendable Underhood light (from a Chevy Silverado)
-Hella Supertone horns
-Primitive Racing 1/8" WRX skidplate (redrilled)
-06 STI rear diffuser
-"L7" JDM Legacy front grille
-SPT battery alloy tie down
-Rear foglamp
-Aux. 3rd reverse lamp

Wheelsets:
-Enkei RC-t4 17x8 Gold wheels, 235/45/17 General AS-D3
-2011 WRX 17x8 wheels, 235/45/17 Dunlop SP01
-Borbet 16x7.5 wheels, 225/50/16 Kumho Ecsta ASX
-Enkei RPF-1 17x8, 235/45/17 Hankook icebears (15.6lbs! :grin: ) (winter)
-Mille Miglia 16x7 205/60/16 winterforce tires

Originally
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/xyz11-1.jpg

As it currently stands:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/20140418_062347_zps0a81b795-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/27502b54701f4a54b91ca8b69e39dfd9_zps5806-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/100_1115-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100882-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100680-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100311-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100132-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100498-1.jpg


Some other "rice" pics :razz:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100837-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/CBA_3081-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/3017473995_1b2a6afc76-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/09/HPIM021-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070900-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070624a-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060542-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080039-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060548-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1090042-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1090044-1.jpg


:twisted:

rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:20 PM
Evolution of my Interior:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/885f67c6caf94e72add58d0c915d2e93_zps22ad-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080853-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060603-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060551-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/08/HPIM1765-1.jpg

Evo VIII Recaros
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070688-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P10707571-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P10707591-1.jpg

LED lighting:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100063-1.jpg

DCCD controller mounting:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100672-1.jpg

Sound-deadener Trunk:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100060-1.jpg

with my old 03 WRX seats...great seats if you're on a budget.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060637-1.jpg
Safety first guys! :wink:

rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:23 PM
Mechanicals:
Engine currently:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100839-1.jpg

Previously:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100274-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080044-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070613-1.jpg

Engine when I got it. BOV is a little too close to the hotside IC pipe...at first it would literally sheer off the vacuum line with enough engine movement;moved the pipes around a little when I wrapped the coldside pipe, now there's a lot more clearance for that vac line...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060540-1.jpg

TGV deletes/IM spacers/pink injectors
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060553-1.jpg

Fuelrail thingy :lol: and my obnoxious BOV...it's ricer bait :(
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060554-1.jpg

Turblo and DP- like as Ten80 said, some WRX DP's will occasionally bang against the firewall (stock DP does NOT). Mine does on sudden on/off throttle inputs
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060555-1.jpg

FMIC hot side pipe routing...edit: wrapped the cold side piping because it goes right over the turbo.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060556-1.jpg

Intake scoop:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100068-1.jpg

Skidplate:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070414-1.jpg

Argh, front subframe.
The steering rack is a great mod...you'll need to modify the Ujoint to join the rack to the N/A steering column
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060490-1.jpg

Argh rear swaybar
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/11/HPIM0489-1.jpg

Brakes:
front
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100087-1.jpg
rear
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060823-1.jpg


old engine...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/07/HPIM1684-1.jpg

Yup, still dirty :D
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1040816-1.jpg

rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:26 PM
I'm like a woman when it comes to shoes...

Old wheels:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/071211154111-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100301-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060547-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/09/P1060545-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/HPIM1734-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1040775-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/HPIM1683-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/01/HPIM0460-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/12/HPIM0554-1.jpg

rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:29 PM
Maybe it applies to lights too...
Current setup:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/100_1117-1.jpg

old setup(s):
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/12/xyz1-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/HPIM1049-1.jpg

hmm...too much?
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/08/HPIM1166-1.jpg

Ok, ok fine, let's just stick with this for now...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1040845-1.jpg

Lol, maybe not :razz:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060862-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/10/P1070897-1.jpg

Rally night tiem?
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060889-1.jpg

rougeben83
10-26-2007, 05:32 PM
Action shots, video, whatever :)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/Legacyfowlerville-1.jpg

Too much? :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/12/HPIM0516-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/th_HPIM0928_PC-1.jpg (http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/?action=view&current=HPIM0928_PC.flv)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/th_HPIM0927_PC-1.jpg (http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/?action=view&current=HPIM0927_PC.flv)

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/th_HPIM1164_PC-1.jpg (http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/?action=view&current=HPIM1164_PC-1.flv)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/th_run2_PC-1.jpg (http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/?action=view&current=run2_PC.flv)

deadlydave
10-26-2007, 07:42 PM
WOW dude, lookin' good. What are you gonna do with that there hood scoop?

suba-rude
10-26-2007, 10:39 PM
nice :grin:

rougeben83
10-27-2007, 01:58 AM
WOW dude, lookin' good. What are you gonna do with that there hood scoop?

Thanks man :) I really don't know if I'll be going that route, I'm still deciding what kind of intercooling options I'd like to go with...but hopefully within the next few months, this can get done...(headers are already in at least :lol:)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2006/09/HPIM0433-1.jpg

suba-rude
10-27-2007, 02:12 AM
thats REAL NICE :grin:

deadlydave
10-27-2007, 09:02 AM
Utter hotness!

BE-Fresh
10-27-2007, 01:38 PM
It's like an evil twin... I like :twisted:

rougeben83
11-22-2007, 12:54 AM
Thanks for all the positive feedback guys :D

Home Depot lip? Yeah, Home Depot lip :twisted:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/11/P1060014-1.jpg

deadlydave
11-22-2007, 12:12 PM
Niiice. Keep up the good work.

htioki
11-26-2007, 01:24 PM
I have had no luck getting the wheel gap measurements off a stock Legacy wagon. I was able to find one off a sedan. Just so that I have one more to compare, can you take a quick measurement of your wheel gap (front and rear), same like here:

http://www.sl-i.net/FORUM/viewtopic.php?t=3382

I'm trying to get an idea how much higher 00-04 outbacks are than their legaciy counterparts. I have an 01 OBW that I'm trying to lower w/ stock Legacy suspension but trying to figure out how much lower it'd be. Thanks.

sansMYSTi
11-26-2007, 01:31 PM
I have heard that the Legacies sit about 1 inch lower than the Outbacks (stock). If my Leg was at its stock height, I could easily compare to my wifes Outback.

rougeben83
01-29-2008, 03:24 PM
Finally got these done after 2 winters of on and off dicking around with them ...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/01/P1060404-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/01/P1060403-1.jpg

The cutoff isn't as rainbow-y as some of the hardcore HID retrofitters would like, but eh. It does what its supposed to do :)

My hi-beams can keep up with the driving lights now :twisted:

blackgtbeauty
01-29-2008, 04:18 PM
How well do those seats fit 'n' sit compared to you stock ones?

rougeben83
01-29-2008, 07:44 PM
How well do those seats fit 'n' sit compared to you stock ones?

The bolstering on the 02-03 wrx seats are so much more aggressive, on that part alone they were worth what I paid for them. :wink:

blackgtbeauty
01-29-2008, 08:39 PM
How about the height?

rougeben83
01-29-2008, 08:53 PM
How about the height?

The front part of the seat will sit about 1" higher...the rear has tilt adjustment so I have it back to around stock height (at least from my perspective). My old seat had this firm area right in the lower lumbar region; it started to get annoying on long drives (I do a few 10 hour trips from MI to NY every year). The new seats are much more comfortable for me at least.

If you can find someone with 02 wrx seats, I suggest you sit in it and try it out.

_RM_
01-31-2008, 02:36 PM
Where'd you get them projectors?? :shock:

rougeben83
02-01-2008, 03:36 PM
Where'd you get them projectors?? :shock:

Ebay :lol: They're FX35/45 bixenon projectors...

rougeben83
04-24-2008, 06:33 PM
After a month and half absence...the car is finally back...thank goodness.

I don't have cruise control now :-( :-(

deadlydave
04-25-2008, 08:57 AM
You sly dog. That's a lot of hardware under the hood. :-D

Huffer
04-25-2008, 10:02 AM
You could tell this was happening... too many hints about ECS. Awesome!

deadlydave
04-26-2008, 09:02 AM
You could tell this was happening... too many hints about ECS. Awesome!

I expected a scoop and tmic, but he went all-out for the fmic. Awesome. Now, he needs a license plate like 'grocery' or something. Or the ever-popular 'PWNED".

Plays_with_Toys
04-26-2008, 02:37 PM
I thought I went through alot of lights... Can't wait to see the finished exterior shots with FMIC. But c'mon, what's your driving impressions?!

Oh, and what's with the front sway bar? Why is it so much narrower than your mounting points on the control arms? Maybe time for a tribeca bar?

DLC
04-26-2008, 04:10 PM
Nominate for swapped-Legacy ROTM!

rougeben83
04-26-2008, 04:15 PM
I thought I went through alot of lights... Can't wait to see the finished exterior shots with FMIC. But c'mon, what's your driving impressions?!

Oh, and what's with the front sway bar? Why is it so much narrower than your mounting points on the control arms? Maybe time for a tribeca bar?

How do you mean narrow? It's a 22mm bar, so it's not a very aggressive fsb; if you mean why it's not as wide as the mounting points, it's probably just the angle...it's pretty close to the mounting tab, even though I do have a 20mm wider track in the front now.

As far as impressions...the BOV is a ricer magnet, I need to change it to a BPV, full 19psi comes in hard 3800-4k rpm, I'm at 1bar around 3300 rpm. I can't hit full boost in 1st because of the 4.11 gearing, but 2-5th gear is a blast. Best yet, it sounds so quiet and docile when I'm just cruising around, but the vf23 sounds like a jet is taxi-ing in the passenger side of the car :lol: . I have to remember not to do clutch dumps :lol:

Oh yeah, it's definitely fast. :grin: :grin: :grin: 70-100+mph in 5th is hilarious because of how quickly the turbo spools up. The turbo is pretty responsive during partial throttle, but Paul pointed out it's not as responsive as other turbos when you WOT it; it's probably because the vf23 was optimized for the ej20 STi with an 8k redline.

The STi steering rack has a heavier feel, tighter center. I need to dial in some negative camber in the front, the BBS' look like they might rub during hard cornering.

PA-Outback2000
04-26-2008, 06:36 PM
if still wanting a turbo hood, try a baja turbo hood. looks a lot cleaner that just popping on a wrx scoop.

rougeben83
04-26-2008, 10:26 PM
if still wanting a turbo hood, try a baja turbo hood. looks a lot cleaner that just popping on a wrx scoop.

Nope, more more hoodscoops for me. :lol:

I claybar'd and waxed the car finally. I'll get to picturewhoring tomorrow

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/P1060487.jpg

DOOK
04-27-2008, 03:13 PM
welp... guess it's about time for me to look into getting something with a little heart under the hood of my wagon... swap here I come... you have inspired me... now to find a suitable donor.

rougeben83
04-27-2008, 06:57 PM
Finally got to claybar and wax the car. It's so smooth to the touch :shock:

BigLooga1
04-27-2008, 10:47 PM
Shwweeeet! very nice!

I feel ya, once you go turbo, your hooked! :razz:

rougeben83
05-07-2008, 05:29 PM
Yeah, the boost is like crack. I got my friend addicted to the boost too. She giggles whenever she hears the turbo spool up :lol: :lol:

Here's me being an idiot in the rain :wink:

http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/ ... st-2nd.flv (http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/?action=view&current=1st-2nd.flv)

WinterKnoll
05-07-2008, 06:25 PM
WHOOOSH. I'm addicted to it and I've never even owned a boosted car.

rougeben83
05-17-2008, 09:43 PM
Just some small things added;

Decided to wrap the cold side pipe and moved the pipes around to get more clearance for the BOV. Having the pipe go right over the turbo sucks for heat transfer...

Got a billet pitchstop mount...I'm on the fence about its usefulness. It makes throttle more responsive to your input(both a good and bad thing) and also changes clutch takeup (it seems more on/off to me, not as smooth as before) but it also transfers A LOT more engine noise and transmission whine. I may take it off later...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060540-1.jpg

rougeben83
05-19-2008, 12:45 AM
Got some gauges (Oil Pres/Oil Temp/EGT) and upgraded to a slightly better Pioneer HU (MP3, RCA outputs and XM radio compatible basically)...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060603-1.jpg

Kansei
05-19-2008, 01:32 AM
nice.

blackgtbeauty
05-19-2008, 01:43 AM
Holy jeebus it's like effing christmas in there!

rougeben83
05-19-2008, 09:30 PM
Holy jeebus it's like effing christmas in there!

hahaha, yeah I need to get the dimmer function working on the HU... :lol:

impreza_GC8
06-03-2008, 02:03 AM
Very inspiring! I'm considering going a simlar route with a Legacy GT and I'm just gathering info about what all is involved with such a swap. You've made it look easy! Its an amazing machine!

rougeben83
06-14-2008, 03:01 PM
Very inspiring! I'm considering going a simlar route with a Legacy GT and I'm just gathering info about what all is involved with such a swap. You've made it look easy! Its an amazing machine!

I don't think I've given Paul and the ECS guys enough props for doing all the hard work in making it happen. There were some issues during the build that made it about 2 weeks over the due date (custom exhaust work, missing parts, a black widow wtf :shock: , etc), but mechanically, it came out without a hitch, and made more power than either one of us were expecting (my original statement to them was..."I want a really conservative tune, maybe 250whp-260 tops"...right). They were very impressed at how much of a sleeper it looks with the black FMIC, and how little modification it really required to get a WRX FMIC kit to fit a BE...which was just as planned :twisted:

Anyway, small updates, in my procrastination for studying for boards, I made a fire extinguisher bracket for the front pass seat, a radiator shroud, put a heatshield on the turbo and went back to the group N pitch mount (with a little modification to make it stiffer). :lol: :lol: :lol:

I just couldn't live with the aluminum pitchstop...maybe I'm getting old.

Also, I went autocrossing for the first time in Modified; good thing the field only consisted of me, a rotary-swapped MG sprite, and an gutted RX-7...with a chevy small block :eek: - right. It's a whole different animal to drive now...there's speed there, but the nut behind the wheel needs some more adjustment.

I'll be wrapping the manifolds next in my further quest to reduce hood temps, and possibly help the spool-up. I also picked up some Hoosiers for cheap...oh yeaaaaaah :twisted:

Autox tiem!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/06/P1060656-1.jpg

Anyone want some azenis, theyre going to be dismounted soon? :lol:

nosbocaj
06-14-2008, 05:58 PM
I love this car. It's a total sleeper. Congrats!

deadlydave
06-16-2008, 01:59 PM
YHELOTHUR.......

Very nice, what class are you running in with the insane work you've had done? And Hoosiers....dear god that's gonna be so incredibly fast.

rougeben83
06-16-2008, 02:24 PM
YHELOTHUR.......

Very nice, what class are you running in with the insane work you've had done? And Hoosiers....dear god that's gonna be so incredibly fast.

Running SM...all the work still makes me underprepared for pretty much a class where anything goes :cry: . The hoosiers are almost a prerequisite since everyone else is running some sort of R-compound, I'm so glad I scored a set for less than $150 w/ wheels :lol:

Anyway, wrapped the manifolds yesterday. Breaking in the wrap, I noticed slightly better spoolup, but we'll see if that's just the placebo effect working. I'll have to see how underhood temps are now in stop and go driving with the wrapped manifolds as that was my original intention with the wrap...

EGT was reading 750-800F @ idle and 1350F cruising @ 80mph, I'll have to see how high it can go when I'm romping on it. :smile:

rougeben83
07-10-2008, 07:51 PM
Updated pics on the front page...

Mach 1 lip, home-made extinguisher bracket, and new badging...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/07/P1060642-1.jpg

In the mean time, have some mad tyte negative camber! :lol: :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/07/P1060692-1.jpg

rougeben83
08-10-2008, 01:16 AM
Just some random underbody stuff...

DIY underpanel
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/08/P1060702-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/08/P1060703-1.jpg

WRX subframe H-brace
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/08/P1060704-1.jpg

Kansei
08-10-2008, 11:03 AM
where exactly does the H-brace bolt on?

rougeben83
08-18-2008, 10:17 PM
where exactly does the H-brace bolt on?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/viewtopic.php?t=10311
The bottom of the page :smile:

jg09
08-19-2008, 09:03 PM
I'm loving that ride. It's done up well. It's not over done, but it doesn't have that look that some cars have (you know, like the owner is constantly "almost done" with the car, but never buttons up the last few details).

rougeben83
09-17-2008, 02:35 AM
Thanks guys :smile:

I realized I had an STi axleback lying around in storage, after some searching and measuring, I realized the 06 WRX muffler I had was not the best to go along with a 2.5" exhaust. $50 later and I got a meaner sounding WRX...er Legacy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6gY-UAxurg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKdelSuk5sY

At least the turbo spools up about 200 rpm sooner now... :grin:

rougeben83
09-28-2008, 01:20 AM
I'm loving that ride. It's done up well. It's not over done, but it doesn't have that look that some cars have (you know, like the owner is constantly "almost done" with the car, but never buttons up the last few details).

haha, thanks. I've realized that I have to be more careful in picking and chosing parts to make it better, while reducing the negative side effects of said modifications.

Anyway, couple of new things...changed the shifter to a IXIZconcept adjustable shifter (basically a stock shifter modified to have the throw adjustable). And I saw a couple of my brake hoses had cracks in them :shock: so I finally got off my lazy butt to change them to SS lines (DIY to follow).

Finally, tried out the Nissan 2pot conversion using kartboy adapters...we'll see how they work one after I get to bleeding the lines tomorrow. (with pics).

addiction102
09-28-2008, 04:20 PM
Some V8 tool commented on your sound vid, yeah i bet his cobalt sounds JUST LIKE a 305...

rougeben83
09-28-2008, 07:03 PM
Some V8 tool commented on your sound vid, yeah i bet his cobalt sounds JUST LIKE a 305...

Haha, that's ok, I have a feeling it's one of the guys I know on the other forums, trolling my video clip.

Most of the streetfire types don't use "boxer rumble" in a negative connotation (if they even know the term).

Nissan 2pots, w/ SS brake hoses (FINALLY) this weekend!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060823-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/09/P1060842-1.jpg

MOLIVA
09-29-2008, 03:19 AM
NICE RIDE rougeben83. WAS WONDERING WHAT KIND OF MUDFLAPS DO U HAVE ON THE CAR?

deadlydave
09-29-2008, 08:01 PM
You....you....guy.

Very nice! Would you mind hooking up an admirer with the Part number for the SS lines and the rear calipers?

Reason
09-29-2008, 08:50 PM
Did you paint the front lip yet?

rougeben83
09-29-2008, 09:50 PM
NICE RIDE rougeben83. WAS WONDERING WHAT KIND OF MUDFLAPS DO U HAVE ON THE CAR?

Thanks dude :smile: They're generic truck mudflaps, got them on sale for $5 :lol:


You....you....guy.

Very nice! Would you mind hooking up an admirer with the Part number for the SS lines and the rear calipers?

Good thing I didn't throw out the box yet :smile: ... part no. 24214 Goodridge G-Stop

Tirerack may or may not have them...I bought these on clearance from them over a year ago.

I think the Baja/outbacks use a longer line for the fronts due to the lift. I'm not sure if that exception applies to you since you're on coilovers...


Did you paint the front lip yet?

Not yet, I'm still on the fence on whether I should...it would be kind of hard to undo it.

I'm digging the musclecar-ish vibe the flat black lip gives right now, but I haven't photochopped the color match to see if it would look "right".

badbasser98
09-29-2008, 10:24 PM
...but I haven't photochopped the color match to see if it would look "right".
Just a tip for the chops, get a few different angles and chop them all. That will give you the best idea. I chopped the lip on my WRX body color and it looked great. Then I saw a pic of one from a different angle with the matched lip and it looked like shit (real photo). Now I am not sure I want to do it... :-?

rougeben83
10-20-2008, 02:41 PM
Can I has moar rims? :-? I had a bit of a scare; I kept hearing a whirring sound from one of the front wheels on the highway. I found out the driver's side SS brake line was rubbing against the inside of the rim :shock: Left a shallow gouge along the entire perimeter of the rim. Checked the line out quickly for any damage, looks like there isn't any; HOPEFULLY there isn't going to be upon further inspection.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/10/P1060884-2.jpg

Trying to figure out night photography...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060862-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/10/P1060860-2.jpg

rougeben83
11-10-2008, 04:49 PM
Went rallycrossing this weekend...very wet, very muddy, very fun :grin:

I lost my lip though :cry:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/DSC_4144-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/DSC_4025-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/DSC_4023-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/3017473995_1b2a6afc76-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/b-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/DSC_4564-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2008/11/DSC_4578-1.jpg

Huffer
11-10-2008, 04:53 PM
Showpony. :lol:

rougeben83
11-10-2008, 04:57 PM
Showpony. :lol:

Da BOV let the photogs know I was comin' :lol: :lol:

Airgne
11-10-2008, 07:28 PM
what mudflaps you got?

rougeben83
11-10-2008, 08:07 PM
just some generic truck flaps from autozone.

Huffer
11-11-2008, 09:05 AM
just some generic truck flaps from autozone.

Note that they weren't all that effective. ;)

rougeben83
11-11-2008, 12:38 PM
just some generic truck flaps from autozone.

Note that they weren't all that effective. ;)

no no, look at the rear, there's exactly 10% less mud on them than the rest of the car :lol:

Airgne
11-11-2008, 02:56 PM
since you lost your lip it looks like the time to get the outback front bumper.

deadlydave
11-11-2008, 09:08 PM
where was this? If i had known it would be that muddy and soft i would've come and kicked some ass. :-(

rougeben83
11-13-2008, 07:57 PM
where was this? If i had known it would be that muddy and soft i would've come and kicked some ass. :-(

this was a little west of Grand Rapids in Michigan. I'm still clean clay out of my undercarriage :-?

No bumper change, I'll just put on a Home Depot lip ver.2 and call it a day :lol:

97legacygt
11-13-2008, 10:35 PM
this was a little west of Grand Rapids in Michigan

Next time this is going on, let me know. I am only 1/2 hour south if I am home or 45 min north of Grand Rapids if I am at school. I kind of want to do this, but not wash my car afterward.[/url]

deadlydave
11-19-2008, 08:52 PM
Ah, i thought it was closer than that.

rougeben83
11-30-2008, 01:25 AM
Ah, i thought it was closer than that.

Yeah, we got a couple of SCCA national rallyx champions that are regulars here, they'll definitely give you a run for your money :eek:

rougeben83
01-18-2009, 04:27 PM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/01/P1070357-1.jpg

Extendable hood/work light from a Chevy Silverado :lol:

rougeben83
02-07-2009, 11:43 PM
The DYI bellypan went kaput during the last rallycross. Having nothing to at least protect the filter/senders/oilpan was unacceptable so I got this...

Redrilled 1/8" thick Primitive Racing Skidplate (WRX fitment). Moved up the plate to cover more of the FMIC, but I had to sacrifice some protection over the steering rack/xmember area...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070405-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070414-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070408-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070410-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070418-1.jpg

Covering the FMIC...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070416-1.jpg

Yeah rally piggy! :grin:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070407-1.jpg

99gtlimited
02-11-2009, 03:27 AM
nice job!! is that orange rtv i see on your header/exhaust port?? i've used the black stuff before for exhaust but never the orange, are you using it to seal and prevent exhaust leaks?

Reason
02-11-2009, 04:06 AM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

deadlydave
02-11-2009, 08:41 AM
Nice plate. I need one now myself. I was frolicking in the snow and borked hard, removing that pesky plastic stock undertray permanently. :smt017

rougeben83
02-11-2009, 12:40 PM
nice job!! is that orange rtv i see on your header/exhaust port?? i've used the black stuff before for exhaust but never the orange, are you using it to seal and prevent exhaust leaks?

I think that's left over mud :lol: If you mean the goldish looking stuff on the TGV delete on the 1st page, that's that copper high-temp rtv IIRC.


Nice plate. I need one now myself. I was frolicking in the snow and borked hard, removing that pesky plastic stock undertray permanently. :smt017

Hit up Primitive, they have a Legacy/Baja plate, it's a lot bigger than the WRX plate I got...I'm a cheap bastard so I just made the smaller one fit :razz:

99gtlimited
02-11-2009, 03:42 PM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070408-1.jpg



you can see it in this pic on the header flange and the head itself, it really looks orange to me next to the wrapped header. I can't see it being an issue i was just curious

rougeben83
02-11-2009, 04:39 PM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/02/P1070408-1.jpg



you can see it in this pic on the header flange and the head itself, it really looks orange to me next to the wrapped header. I can't see it being an issue i was just curious

yeah, that's some mud and RTV :lol:

99gtlimited
02-11-2009, 05:13 PM
so is that made from aluminum?? (the skidplate) and how thick would you say it is (rough estimate)? i think this would be a somewhat easy DIY for me here at school with the waterjet, just have to design one for the BD first....

rougeben83
02-11-2009, 06:14 PM
so is that made from aluminum?? (the skidplate) and how thick would you say it is (rough estimate)? i think this would be a somewhat easy DIY for me here at school with the waterjet, just have to design one for the BD first....

its 1/8" thick, there's a 3/16" Stage Rally version too. Made of aluminum, I'm not sure what grade it is though. It's 29"x33", I think if you have access to the material and tools, it's easily doable. I think the WRX plate dimensions will easily fit under a BD. It's just the BE Legacy plate that is wider, flush to the fenderliner, and a little more material in the front. You'd need a press or something to do the 45deg bends on the front and rear "lips" if you want to make an exact copy...

99gtlimited
02-11-2009, 08:33 PM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

Shane-
for high temp?? or just in general?

I was told that the black high temp RTV was better for exhaust work than the red by a tech at the local dealership up here in bellingham.

Ben-
thanks for the info on the skid plate, that's nice the dimensions are so small cause i think the max width we can fit in our waterjet is like 36" so this is close to as big as i could go with that setup. Only thing about that now is that it'll most likely cost me $10 or so just to use the machine not including the materials. Time to get going with a CAD model, do you know anywhere i can find a picture of a BD or wrx skidplate so i can get the dimensions a little more exact?

T_F_E
02-11-2009, 09:35 PM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

Shane-
for high temp?? or just in general?

I was told that the black high temp RTV was better for exhaust work than the red by a tech at the local dealership up here in bellingham.

Ben-
thanks for the info on the skid plate, that's nice the dimensions are so small cause i think the max width we can fit in our waterjet is like 36" so this is close to as big as i could go with that setup. Only thing about that now is that it'll most likely cost me $10 or so just to use the machine not including the materials. Time to get going with a CAD model, do you know anywhere i can find a picture of a BD or wrx skidplate so i can get the dimensions a little more exact?

The metal itself is about 100 dollars for 1/8 inch

Reason
02-11-2009, 10:33 PM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

Shane-
for high temp?? or just in general?

I was told that the black high temp RTV was better for exhaust work than the red by a tech at the local dealership up here in bellingham.

Ben-
thanks for the info on the skid plate, that's nice the dimensions are so small cause i think the max width we can fit in our waterjet is like 36" so this is close to as big as i could go with that setup. Only thing about that now is that it'll most likely cost me $10 or so just to use the machine not including the materials. Time to get going with a CAD model, do you know anywhere i can find a picture of a BD or wrx skidplate so i can get the dimensions a little more exact?

I switched my stock header out and it had red RTV on OEM gaskets. I went to NAPA and a smaller parts store and both recommended the red over the black. And Napa recommended the copper RTV over the red. I just went with red since thats what was already on there. When I do my motor build I will use the copper RTV. I use the black RTV on my exhaust "fixes". My mid pipe is rusted out and the flange where it meets the muffler. The black RTV dries up and blows out every few weeks. I put the red on this time, we will see how long that will last.

Now that this is about rougebens car and not a RTV thread, I have a question on those spacers for the "H" brace. Did those come with it or did you have to source them out?

rougeben83
02-11-2009, 11:25 PM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

Shane-
for high temp?? or just in general?

I was told that the black high temp RTV was better for exhaust work than the red by a tech at the local dealership up here in bellingham.

Ben-
thanks for the info on the skid plate, that's nice the dimensions are so small cause i think the max width we can fit in our waterjet is like 36" so this is close to as big as i could go with that setup. Only thing about that now is that it'll most likely cost me $10 or so just to use the machine not including the materials. Time to get going with a CAD model, do you know anywhere i can find a picture of a BD or wrx skidplate so i can get the dimensions a little more exact?

I switched my stock header out and it had red RTV on OEM gaskets. I went to NAPA and a smaller parts store and both recommended the red over the black. And Napa recommended the copper RTV over the red. I just went with red since thats what was already on there. When I do my motor build I will use the copper RTV. I use the black RTV on my exhaust "fixes". My mid pipe is rusted out and the flange where it meets the muffler. The black RTV dries up and blows out every few weeks. I put the red on this time, we will see how long that will last.

Now that this is about rougebens car and not a RTV thread, I have a question on those spacers for the "H" brace. Did those come with it or did you have to source them out?

I had to make them. I don't have a subframe like on the WRX's so those are what would usually be there instead. Actually, I had to make spacers for the plate as well. Good thing my other hobby is building bicycles; all of the spacers are just leftover handlebar ends since I narrow the handlebar on all of my bikes :grin:

Oh and the RTV we ended up using for those manifolds were that black/graphite rtv (not the pure black one, I'm not sure if thats what makes it hi-temp). I've used the copper stuff before for exhaust leaks, last one was when I blew out the remflex crap on my uppipe - it only lasted a few days :( Had to shell out around $200 in labor, grimmspeed gaskets, and a new EGT sensor (old one got mangled when taking off the manifold oi :roll: ) just shut the car up again...

rougeben83
02-11-2009, 11:31 PM
The red RTV is recommended over the black RTV.

Shane-
for high temp?? or just in general?

I was told that the black high temp RTV was better for exhaust work than the red by a tech at the local dealership up here in bellingham.

Ben-
thanks for the info on the skid plate, that's nice the dimensions are so small cause i think the max width we can fit in our waterjet is like 36" so this is close to as big as i could go with that setup. Only thing about that now is that it'll most likely cost me $10 or so just to use the machine not including the materials. Time to get going with a CAD model, do you know anywhere i can find a picture of a BD or wrx skidplate so i can get the dimensions a little more exact?

I'll try to get you the dimensions...the only fancy cut is where the end tapers to clear the control arms anyway.

And yeah TFE, after the cost of materials, pressing those fancy vents in and welding the spacers in (mine didn't come with that as I specified though), I don't think Primitive/Paul makes a lot of profit on these plates anyway.

CarlitoQC
02-26-2009, 11:33 AM
That L can eat a S a T an a I? Nice sleeper you got there.

legacyB4RSK
03-01-2009, 04:31 PM
How are you keeping the turbo cool without a hood scoop? I'm getting an '06 WRX swap in a few weeks and I'm concerned that my Turbo Baja hood scoop will not allow enought air in. My turbo is a VF30 with a large top mount intercooler. I should be getting about 280hp at the wheels which I think is about 350 hp at the crank.



Thanks

rougeben83
03-01-2009, 04:57 PM
How are you keeping the turbo cool without a hood scoop? I'm getting an '06 WRX swap in a few weeks and I'm concerned that my Turbo Baja hood scoop will not allow enought air in. My turbo is a VF30 with a large top mount intercooler. I should be getting about 280hp at the wheels which I think is about 350 hp at the crank.



Thanks

It's not a matter of the turbo, its the stuff around it that has to remain cool. Turbo blanket with the stock turbo heatshield and exhaust wrap on the hot side is a good idea. It's still hotter under the hood than before, especially during the summer, but according to my oil temp gauge the stock cooling system is able to handle it fine.

Heatsoak with the TMIC has always been a problem with the WRX/STi guys. But you do a lot of highway driving and very little stop and go, there should be enough air getting into the baja scoop to keep the TMIC running at good efficiency...Otherwise you can always mount a windshield sprayer directed at the TMIC fins so you can spray water on it when it does heatsoak.

legacyB4RSK
03-01-2009, 05:56 PM
Great!! Thanks for the advice

rougeben83
03-01-2009, 10:35 PM
Great!! Thanks for the advice

Forgot to add, double check the fitment on that TMIC as the BE/H's put the engine closer to the firewall (hence why the first time subaru used those narrow plastic and aluminum TMIC's were on the baja turbo's) so it has less clearance for the TMIC than a WRX would.

Found this out the hard way with the Minam TMIC when I was going the turbo kit route...

rougeben83
03-02-2009, 05:02 PM
Catchcan and new (to me) Forge BOV. Stupid TurboXS RL just requires too much work to get it to work right... Now I need the right spring for the stupid BOV though ugh :roll:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/03/P1070447-1.jpg

rougeben83
03-24-2009, 07:53 PM
Just a little preview...
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/P1070512.jpg

Anyone want to guess what they are? :grin:

They won't be going in until late April when I get some free time though :-(

MyogiNightKid
03-25-2009, 01:37 AM
Look like Evo seats :smt017 and if i recall you had your seats FS.

Come down to the Tol and Ill help you put em in :smt023

rougeben83
03-25-2009, 02:18 PM
Look like Evo seats :smt017 and if i recall you had your seats FS.

Come down to the Tol and Ill help you put em in :smt023

damn, I guess I should've shot the headrest or something :lol: I have to do some welding on the brackets once they get here from sybir hence the delay. Otherwise I'd bolt these in right this weekend :grin:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/03/P1070513-1.jpg

Reason
03-25-2009, 02:42 PM
That's a nice looking seat, it looks comfortable :smile:

rougeben83
03-28-2009, 03:00 AM
The search for the right noise maker is still ongoing. Trying an HKS SSQV next. I was getting serious compressor surge with the Forge unit, and the high pitched sound really annoyed me. Plus adjustment was downright tedious with 6 allen bolts every time I have to change the spring (which btw, I just blew $20 to get the "tuning" spring kit bleh) At least with the TXS one it was *only* wastegate flutter :roll:.

Hopefully this positive pressure bs HKS is flaunting actually gives me the boost holding capability and the delicate partial throttle response I've been looking for...looks promising so far. Final install will need to rotate the flange and put the recirc fitting on it though.

Reason
03-28-2009, 07:15 AM
Have you looked into Turbosmart bov? My friend had one on his Saab and it sounded great. IF I ever boodt I would get the one the one that can switch internal external.

MyogiNightKid
03-28-2009, 12:07 PM
I have been reading my old SCC (RIP) issues on the throne lately and came by the June '03 issue with a BOV comparo test based on which had the smoothest reduction in pressure as air was vented thus maintaining a steady compressor speed between shifts. Instead of the pressure slamming back into the compressor wheel. The HKS SSQV was "slow to respond" but "emitted a sound reminiscent of a seal being beaten to death. Fun, kind of exciting, and bound to get you the looks."

My pick, as was theirs based on performance for after market would be either the A'Pexi Twin Chamber or the Blitz Super Sound DD.

rougeben83
03-29-2009, 04:59 PM
I have been reading my old SCC (RIP) issues on the throne lately and came by the June '03 issue with a BOV comparo test based on which had the smoothest reduction in pressure as air was vented thus maintaining a steady compressor speed between shifts. Instead of the pressure slamming back into the compressor wheel. The HKS SSQV was "slow to respond" but "emitted a sound reminiscent of a seal being beaten to death. Fun, kind of exciting, and bound to get you the looks."

My pick, as was theirs based on performance for after market would be either the A'Pexi Twin Chamber or the Blitz Super Sound DD.

Hmm, I guess I should have kept the Blitz bov I had a few years back for the turbo kit. :smt012 Sigh. Yeah, the SSQV sounds...well it takes some getting used to. I like the more muted "whooosh" of my old bov and not the high pitched yelp/whistle. Additionally, it's not any better than the txs one I already had in terms of drivability. Sigh.

In other news, snow ties + rain + turn + boost = wheel spin :lol: I was kind of surprised and thought my clutch was slipping at first because I've never got any serious inside tire wheelspin even with open diffs. I guess this would be where an LSD would sort of be fun :twisted:

rougeben83
05-01-2009, 08:26 PM
Some updates...
Keeping the SSQV, the blitz DD's spring was too stiff, I was getting surge everywhere even on spring's softest setting, it supposedly has the regular spring, I couldn't find anyone selling the lighter spring (which supposedly is only good for below 10psi anyway). I took out the little Y insert on the SSQV, it doesn't sound like I'm killing a baby seal at every shift now, still a little high pitched on full boost release though.

Also added a WRX scoop, did some cutting and melting/bending to get it to exit where the KN filter is at. Also a prime realestate for more rice-stickers! :smt007 :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070613-1.jpg

New wheels: 17x8 mb weapons
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070625-1.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/rougeben83/P1070623a.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070624a-1.jpg

Tight fit :shock:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070621-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070622-1.jpg

No rubbing so far :crosses fingers: I'll probably go ahead and roll the rear fenders though.

99SUS SFD
05-01-2009, 09:06 PM
Looks good with the new wheels.

I wish I had boost... :smt012

rougeben83
05-01-2009, 10:22 PM
Looks good with the new wheels.

I wish I had boost... :smt012

it's greaaaaat join uuuuuuuuuss :smt101 :smt005

99SUS SFD
05-01-2009, 10:35 PM
In due time...in due time.

Reason
05-02-2009, 02:01 AM
I like these rims better than the last set :smt023

MyogiNightKid
05-02-2009, 10:15 AM
Still no Recaros on there!?
Wheels look wicked.
Get some wire loom under that hood, Ill trade you some for a set or WRX center caps :smt002

rougeben83
05-02-2009, 12:17 PM
Thanks guys, I liked the BBS's as a design, but I have to admit the gold/polished lip wasn't the best match for the silver body nor the blacked out headlights. The color of these definitely fit much better with the car as a whole :smile:

I'll get the recaros in there eventually, I have to some pretty extensive modification to the passenger seat base that I don't have time for right now.

JLav211
05-02-2009, 10:47 PM
Thanks guys, I liked the BBS's as a design, but I have to admit the gold/polished lip wasn't the best match for the silver body nor the blacked out headlights. The color of these definitely fit much better with the car as a whole :smile:
.

I felt the exact same way about the goldies. I love gold wheels but not with silver.

What size are the tires? I meant to ask you on NASIOC if you thought I'd have any trouble running 225's on the WRX wheels...

rougeben83
05-03-2009, 01:23 AM
Thanks guys, I liked the BBS's as a design, but I have to admit the gold/polished lip wasn't the best match for the silver body nor the blacked out headlights. The color of these definitely fit much better with the car as a whole :smile:
.

I felt the exact same way about the goldies. I love gold wheels but not with silver.

What size are the tires? I meant to ask you on NASIOC if you thought I'd have any trouble running 225's on the WRX wheels...

I'm running narrow 225 Goodyear F1-g3dsomething or others. A little narrow to some for an 8" wheel, but on a WRX 17" wheel (IIRC 7") 225 is probably the max tire width that most people will do. If you mean the 16", which are 6.5", I've seen guys run 225's too but expect a little more bulge in the sidewall (including the Hoosier R comps I had bought from a guy, and they're a good 3/4" wider than a street 225).

rougeben83
05-21-2009, 11:05 PM
anyone ever driven their car with a plastic milk carton for a seat? It's not that bad, sure my head sticks out of the sunroof, but I can still heel and toe decently :smt005 :smt030

rougeben83
05-22-2009, 09:38 AM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070688-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070689-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070691-1.jpg

One down, one to go (still waiting on passenger base ugh :roll: )

rougeben83
05-27-2009, 02:02 PM
New brakes are in:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/10/P1070737-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070731-1.jpg

The brackets that were more expensive than the calipers and rotors combined :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070733-1.jpg

Why I decided to go with these brakes over Brembos:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070725-1.jpg

Had to grind the calipers due to rotor rubbing once hot, only the passenger side was really rubbing, the driver's side I only noticed one or two spots where the paint came off. I shouldve just followed the instructions from the start instead of trying to get away with doing less work :smt018

Black paint was completely gone on the edge of the pass. side rotor:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070746-1.jpg

Ground down the channel for the rotor on the caliper:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070745-1.jpg

Once installed:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/05/P1070749-1.jpg

rougeben83
06-09-2009, 11:05 PM
Got a tripod, experimenting with trying to take night time photos...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/06/P1070777-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/06/P1070774-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/06/P1070789-1.jpg

hink01wag
06-10-2009, 12:48 PM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060603-1.jpg


did you install mechanical or electric gauges? were did you tap into on the block for the oil press and water temp?

rougeben83
06-12-2009, 12:58 AM
theyre electrical. I wouldn't recommend using mechanical on anything but the boost gauge. (oil in the cabin...eh not really my idea of clean...or safe) but the sensors get mounted up the same way.

I used an oil filter sandwich plate adapter. It's pretty common, just google for pics on what it looks like. You can also tap into the outlet on the top of the block, near the rear passenger side.

rougeben83
07-19-2009, 09:14 PM
I had to get rid of the FF200's, I couldnt find a decent place to put them without blocking something...replaced them with slightly smaller optilux 1300 units, also did some remodeling to open up the opening for the FMIC among other things.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/10/P1070897-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1070900-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/07/P1070892-1.jpg lol GM :razz:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/07/P1070905-1.jpg

anothernord
07-25-2009, 12:21 AM
This is a really sweet car. I especially like the bold FX's just sitting there in the headlights.

rougeben83
07-28-2009, 08:56 PM
Thanks, the headlights seem to be controversial but well...I can only say that I made do with what I had on hand. If I ever have time, maybe, just maybe, I'll go back and put shrouds on...maybe :twisted:

Updated some pics, nothing really new, just redid and resized some shots since it seems the car is constantly changing...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080039-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/07/P1070708-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1060542-1.jpg

I cleaned up some of the wiring, I know it was always a jumble of wires around the relays for the lights on the passenger fender area, finally got some looms to at least cover up the rainbow of wires :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080044-1.jpg

rougeben83
09-21-2009, 08:40 PM
Check out my new shiftknob! :wink: :twisted:


https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1080853-1.jpg

sybir
09-21-2009, 08:59 PM
Nice, dude. No comparison between the 5MT and the 6MT. You can beat it like a redheaded stepchild with no fear.

Huffer
09-21-2009, 09:43 PM
Shazam...!

Airgne
09-21-2009, 09:43 PM
nice. what did you do with your old tranny?

rougeben83
09-21-2009, 10:51 PM
nice. what did you do with your old tranny?

It's still at the mechanic's. He can keep the heavy bits just in case he has someone that needs it, or I find someone that wants the tranny.

anothernord
09-21-2009, 11:06 PM
nice. what did you do with your old tranny?

It's still at the mechanic's. He can keep the heavy bits just in case he has someone that needs it, or I find someone that wants the tranny.

Did the transmission fail?

rougeben83
09-21-2009, 11:08 PM
nice. what did you do with your old tranny?

It's still at the mechanic's. He can keep the heavy bits just in case he has someone that needs it, or I find someone that wants the tranny.

Did the transmission fail?

nope, still shifted fine, but I figured I might as well go full retard on this thing :smt030

Airgne
09-22-2009, 01:01 AM
well ben we might have to talk. how much would you want for it?

ccampbell2546
09-22-2009, 07:40 AM
That's amazing! Now it's like perfect.

rougeben83
09-22-2009, 11:10 PM
well ben we might have to talk. how much would you want for it?

pm'ed.

BE-Fresh
09-22-2009, 11:56 PM
wait wait.. So you have an STi trans mated up to a 2.0L WRX block? I thought that wasn't possible?

rougeben83
09-23-2009, 12:01 AM
wait wait.. So you have an STi trans mated up to a 2.0L WRX block? I thought that wasn't possible?

why? the sti 6 speed is a pretty popular swap for wrx owners since their 5 speeds are relatively weak as well. Though smaller in diameter, you can use a wrx clutch/flywheel with the 6 speed too. (but I didn't :smile: )

On another note, I need to practice the 6-5 downshift. 6th gear is great for cruising but I notice boost doesn't hit as hard with the taller top gear (duh) as on my old 4.11. If I need to pass someone in a hurry, I need to downshift first - the upside to 6th though is the ridiculous top speed now...I was way past the 120 mark today and I don't think the rev counter was any higher than 6 grand :smt023

rougeben83
12-02-2009, 08:07 AM
night shots again...

all sinisterlike...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090006-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090054-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090026-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1090044-1.jpg



Into the tiger's den...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1090042-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090031-1.jpg

4n70n1n0
12-02-2009, 08:43 AM
Lookin nice :smt023

:smt022 I want ur wheels

rougeben83
12-02-2009, 08:50 AM
Lookin nice :smt023

:smt022 I want ur wheels

lol they're cheap enough, you can get them new for the same price youre selling your torques :wink:

Just got back from the exhaust shop, 3" catback, goes with my 3" DP. It's so loud, though, I'm getting the borla switched out to a larger muffler.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VICRBQrZE0I

4n70n1n0
12-02-2009, 01:50 PM
lol they're cheap enough, you can get them new for the same price youre selling your torques :wink:

Exactly!, but no one wants my wheels :smt022

rougeben83
12-11-2009, 02:36 PM
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/Dyno12509-1.jpg

This Mustang dyno held its reputation for being a heartbreaker with a retune netting 257whp/247wtq, while still using around 19-20psi. The last vf23 car they had tuned on that dyno (about 4 years ago) netted around 230whp while using a bigger TMIC, not bad for an engine that has seem extra boost for most of its life. For perspective, a stock STI usually dyno's around 230-240whp on this particular dyno, stock wrx's in the 150-160whp range.

As always, there could be more power to be had, but I always ask for conservative and safe tune.

On a brighter note, I now have launch control and flat-footed shifting programmed into the ECU (as if I would ever use such things :smt005 ). Put it in 1st, WOT the pedal while standing still, watch the thing hold 4750rpms, and feather the clutch = wheelspin and boost and the smell of burnt clutch :)

More importantly, the power delivery has been smoothed out noticeably, shifts are much smoother according to my passengers :p and the throttle is just a little more responsive on boost threshold- the car just pulls a little earlier and just keeps pulling all the way to redline. WOT afr's were leaned out a little bit into the mid 11's (used to be high 10's), among other tweaks by Tony, the resident SI tuner. Hopefully this will net in slightly better gas mileage!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090075-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/12/P1090089-1.jpg
all hooked up and ready to go!

Got the winter wheels (for now) on as well, some KMC redline 17x7's and Hankook w404's...needed a 3mm spacer to clear the front calipers though :-(

and a small exhaust clip of the new Summit racing muffler, probably as quiet as a 3" system will ever be.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be_-7hKh8zM

deadlydave
12-12-2009, 11:42 PM
I Still love your car dude. Nice to see she's been evolving!

rougeben83
12-13-2009, 10:58 PM
I Still love your car dude. Nice to see she's been evolving!

Thanks Dave, Long time no-see! :smt006 When are you ditching that shoe and getting another subaru? :grin:

jospgut
12-13-2009, 11:04 PM
i like how your headlights look!

rougeben83
01-12-2010, 11:39 PM
Nothing really new to add, the car (well chassis at least) turned 100,000 miles old during my 10 hour drive to NY...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/01/P1090095-1.jpg

The view from my blindspot mirror...wish the weather was that clear on the drive back to Detroit - sleet, slush and rain all through 200 miles of western PA, but it handled it just fine! :)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/01/P1090092-1.jpg

anothernord
01-13-2010, 12:09 AM
You need a cluster that reads past 120. ;)

Airgne
01-13-2010, 12:45 AM
well ben with the tune howd the gas mpg turn out on that drive?

Lone_legacy
01-13-2010, 12:59 AM
Congrats on those dyno numbers dude.

rougeben83
01-14-2010, 09:19 PM
well ben with the tune howd the gas mpg turn out on that drive?

I got 25mpg with a full trunk and full backseat, so maybe when I decide to go on a trip without hauling so much stuff, I'd do a little better :lol:


You need a cluster that reads past 120. ;)
Yeah, it's sad my minivan has a 140 speedo :twisted:


Congrats on those dyno numbers dude.
Thanks, it's still running so that's all that matters to me right now :smt030

rougeben83
03-17-2010, 06:30 PM
Just a place holder until I get pics of all the little things I've added...

Whiteline Spec C front tophats
Foglight ducts now connected to engine bay (too lazy to take brake ducts on/off so I just went with plan b)
Revised hoodscoop intake
SPT battery tiedown
Kartboy License plate delete
Dynamat the trunk & extra undercoating under the cabin to reduce exhaust noise at cruise (still a work in progress, I'm changing out one of the resonators for a real muffler, hopefully this will solve it).

ouch1011
03-23-2010, 12:18 AM
Awesome car, very much like what I'd like to do with my car.

Do you have any more details on the brakes? I have a set of Z32 front calipers sitting in the garage that I bought for my Z31 a while back, but now that I'm selling it I was going to sell them too. But, if I could use them on the Legacy.... TIA.

rougeben83
03-27-2010, 10:39 PM
Awesome car, very much like what I'd like to do with my car.

Do you have any more details on the brakes? I have a set of Z32 front calipers sitting in the garage that I bought for my Z31 a while back, but now that I'm selling it I was going to sell them too. But, if I could use them on the Legacy.... TIA.

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthr ... ght=nissan (http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1573612&highlight=nissan)

here you go. The key are the brackets, which are kind of pricy for what they are ($250), but with my freshly rebuilt calipers, new rotors, and new porterfield pads, it came out to be $50-100 cheaper than the usual FHI 4 pot setup...

Also, just picked up some wheels that I've been eyeing for the past 6 months...lighter wheels, better acceleration, better handling! :twisted: :twisted:

rougeben83
04-03-2010, 06:38 PM
Few things added in the last 3 months:

KB front license plate delete, cheapest one of these little things @ $20 from Oakos, my local supplier.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/04/P1100085-1.jpg

Soundproofed trunk (the sides and backseat too, just didn't want to tear into them again :lol:)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100060-1.jpg

LED interior lights! :D (I want to be like Yamazaki!)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100063-1.jpg

Revised hood scoop duct from an 03 Legacy (hey thats my car!), added a pipe extension. Also, routed the foglight ducts finally, into the hole for the IC piping (pass. side), and underneath the car (driver's side). Also visible are the new Whiteline Comp C strut tops, non-adjustable but the offset center gives more negative camber and positive castor without the NVH of solid metal plates.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100068-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/04/P1100064-1.jpg

EBC Yellow front brake pads, so far so good, hopefully the don't dust anywhere near as much as the porterfields.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/04/P1100086-1.jpg

Enkei RPF-1 17x8 +45 offset w/ Kelly Fierce UHP tires 225/45/17
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/04/P1100082-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100087-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/04/P1100074-1.jpg

MadScotsMan
04-03-2010, 07:11 PM
All I can say is..."wow!" That is an incredible Subaru!

Mr Evolution
04-27-2010, 02:19 AM
Great car, Love what you've done with it.

Do you go to any meets in NYC, maybe SQC???

I would like to check it out in person, It is more than I can do given the area where I currently live, but in the future definitely promising to know things can be done on this car.

rougeben83
04-27-2010, 10:07 PM
Thanks for the compliments, I'm back in NYC every few months, next one will probably be in June, I'll have to stop by the SQC meet again when I'm there...last time I went was I think 3 years ago lol.

Car's currently at the shop; bad balljoint leads to rusted hub leads to a CRACKED hub when they tried to put the new bj in. arrrrgh!!

rougeben83
06-02-2010, 05:09 PM
Claybar and waxed the car today, the finish is smoooooth with the zymol wax. Definitely the best stuff I've used out of the 5 or so waxes I've had over the years.

GM RenCen
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/06/P1100079jpg-1.jpg

Detroit skyline :lol:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100132-1.jpg

Lookin' evil
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/06/P1100116-1.jpg

Check out dat shine!
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/06/P1100129-1.jpg

Check out dat stance :p
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/06/P1100126-1.jpg

Yamazaki
06-02-2010, 07:22 PM
I love your car... and you've given me some inspiration for my upcoming "project". But dude, your headlights totally creep me out. :lol:

nomad666666
06-02-2010, 08:29 PM
just saw this and I love the 90's chevy under hood light :smt023

rougeben83
06-05-2010, 02:29 AM
I love your car... and you've given me some inspiration for my upcoming "project". But dude, your headlights totally creep me out. :lol:

ha, I get similar comments about the headlights all the time :wink: What kind of project are you thinking of? Can't wait to see!


just saw this and I love the 90's chevy under hood light :smt023
Thanks, it's definitely come in handy, though I had to redo the locking mechanism/lever that stows the light, it broke so I drilled some holes to secure a small chain to the pin that holds the light in place instead :smt005

rougeben83
07-29-2010, 08:39 PM
1700+mile roadtrip and all I got out of it was a new (to me) fender :razz:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/07/P1100253-1.jpg

KAG
07-30-2010, 12:25 AM
Looking good as usual Ben. Glad to see your light fetish hasn't gone away.

rougeben83
07-30-2010, 06:53 PM
It's what makes a subaru, a subaru after all! :smt005 I see youre back in a 3rd gen! :smt006

rougeben83
08-27-2010, 10:33 PM
Some more underhood bling...

Megan Racing Aluminum Radiator, Perrin Silicone Hoses, new thermostat.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/08/P1100271-1.jpg

with the scoop.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100274-1.jpg

rougeben83
08-29-2010, 11:45 PM
Apparently only $$$ jdm companies make a radiator shroud/radiator plate for the BE/BH. I said F that and made one out of an old aluminum door kick panel :smt005

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/08/P1100290-1.jpg

Also went autoxing today, got to use my R comps for the first time...

Mounted on some 17x8 rota torques.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100301-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/08/P1100294-1.jpg
Look at those meaty bastards! :grin: A 225 r-comp is approx. a 245 street tire btw

Love the grip and response, but I could still spin tires with them on the course :twisted: . Also got the car to consistently do a 4 wheel slide/drift through a fast left hander that opened up to the fastest part of the course, even shifting into 3rd at this point, then downshift again into 2nd before the final hairpin.

dodik
08-30-2010, 08:41 AM
function over form is still your thing i guess. lol you gotta clean up that bumper cover or something. and make some shrouds for those lights.

rougeben83
08-30-2010, 02:37 PM
Yeah the rockblocker's taken a beating over the past 4 years. If I take it off the bumper will look like new, but then it won't have that layer of vinyl to protect the paint.

rougeben83
09-14-2010, 07:01 PM
Urban decay = Detroit...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100311-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/09/P1100318a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/09/P1100315a-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/09/P1100310-1.jpg

Legacy89
09-15-2010, 10:00 AM
Do you have a picture of your trunk and rear tower strut? Would be nice to see how it's located before i start cutting anything:)

rougeben83
09-19-2010, 11:39 PM
Hmm, look in my photobucket account, I may have it, but I answered your PM too. Hopefully that helps, its easy to do!

Legacy89
09-20-2010, 12:37 AM
I found it, if it is the bolts that are about 2 inches off the floor.

rougeben83
09-22-2010, 10:51 PM
Yeah, I actually forgot I still had the installation instructions in my service binder. I couldve just sent you that lol.

rougeben83
10-30-2010, 01:49 AM
Autox pics from a couple of months ago...I'm out of practice after over a year of not doing this.

Didn't realize how much the car squats when its launched hard (still not using Launch Control though)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/10/CBA_3077-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/10/CBA_3086-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/10/CBA_3084-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/CBA_3081-1.jpg

Didn't realize the car was almost tripoding the rear wheels at some point...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/10/CBA_3082-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/10/CBA_30951-1.jpg

Legacy89
10-30-2010, 07:36 AM
The chevy worklight is briliant.
I have a Ledlenser H7 and a T7 in my center console at all times.
If i work at night under the hood i just put the strap trough the grille and a 8-10mm wrench to keep it in place.

rougeben83
11-02-2010, 07:52 PM
The chevy worklight is briliant.
I have a Ledlenser H7 and a T7 in my center console at all times.
If i work at night under the hood i just put the strap trough the grille and a 8-10mm wrench to keep it in place.

That sounds interesting, got any pics? I learned the hard way to always keep a light source somewhere in the car, especially under the hood.

Legacy89
11-03-2010, 10:16 AM
I don't, but it's pretty simple.
Led Lenser T7 with quick focus and OEM strap. Put the strap trough the grille in the center and put a small wrench or screwdriver trough it and gravity does the rest.
Light position will be from center of the Intake manifold but you can move it left or right.

rougeben83
11-11-2010, 04:54 AM
Compression and leak down test done.

145, 145, 140, 145, leak down was ok ...not bad for a motor that's been beat on for most of its life (previous owner did a better job at it than me...)

Reason
11-11-2010, 08:04 AM
Compression and leak down test done.

145, 145, 140, 145, leak down was ok ...not bad for a motor that's been beat on for most of its life (previous owner did a better job at it than me...)

I want to do this too, I bet my numbers are far off.

Legacy89
11-11-2010, 10:21 AM
Is that the test when you turn the engine on the starter? Or do you put compressed air on the cylinder with both in/ex valves closed?

02_Legacy
11-11-2010, 05:38 PM
Is that the test when you turn the engine on the starter? Or do you put compressed air on the cylinder with both in/ex valves closed?
The compression test is where you put the gauge in and turn the engine over, and the leak down test is where you put compressed air into the cylinder, he did both.

rougeben83
11-13-2010, 08:06 PM
Yup, you're right ^^^, the compression test is more to see if the ringlands and pistons are good, the leakdown test can determine if a bad compression is due to something like bad valves or seals.

jewbaru
11-13-2010, 08:30 PM
those old school hood work lights are sick. i have an old one, im trying to LED convert it so its brighter. those lights are amazing tho

rougeben83
11-25-2010, 12:47 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3brYEwXukrU

Belated Dyno video from last year...I didn't know the shop had posted one on YT :lol:

rougeben83
02-25-2011, 08:23 PM
Haven't updated in a while. I've been busy traveling for interviews for the past few months. Need a jerb to pay off all them med school loans after all!

First off, accident in early december. Heavy downpour at near freezing, that eventually turned into snowfall. Some reason I thought it would be a good idea to go to an event at U of M, around 40 miles away. Hit some kind of ice patch/accumulation going 55mph around a bend, tried to correct but the car spun around and went backwards into a guardrail on I96...thankfully the car slowed down enough that only cosmetic damage was incurred. More importantly, no one was hurt, especially my friend in the passenger's seat.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100494-1.jpg

Drove to Cincinnati the following day! (where I took these shots)

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100498-1.jpg

Old railway station/musuem
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100501-1.jpg

City skyline from Kentucky.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100508a-1.jpg

Also drove to Indianapolis:

Soldier Monument in the city center
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100370-1.jpg

Indy speedway
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100394-1.jpg

More recently, craptacular snow.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100635-1.jpg

GM HQ in the background
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/020211150346-1.jpg

Some church near my apt.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/020211145630-1.jpg

I94 during a snowstorm
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/020511155548-1.jpg

Woodward Ave. in downtown Detroit in the middle of the night.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100634-1.jpg

Driving around Bumblefcuk, MI
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/020511164626-1.jpg

BE-Fresh
02-25-2011, 11:13 PM
Woodward Ave. in downtown Detroit in the middle of the night.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/02/P1100634-1.jpg


THAT....looks like a hell of a lot of fun.

Seems like we have all the silver BEs covered for accidents....hopefully that's it for a while.

Reason
02-25-2011, 11:59 PM
I said shit here's the 3rd totaled legacy, glad its not as bad as I thought and you are ok Ben.

rougeben83
02-26-2011, 12:12 AM
Yeah we got really lucky, the car slid backwards a long way so it was probably going around 10-15mph when it hit the guardrail...

One thing I learned though is that while the car is great in the dry, its just too tail-happy in snow, it snaps around on you really quickly. I honestly preferred the old 5 speed in the snow because it was much more stable and predictable when I was hooning it around on purpose. My lack of skill aside, part of this is the open-center diff that's basically locked at 45:55 without any torque distribution...I'll be getting to get a DCCD controller soon. From what I've read that basically makes any 6spd car drive like a different car.

rougeben83
03-08-2011, 07:09 PM
L7 badge for JDM tyteness.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/03/030811183755-1.jpg

BE-Fresh
03-08-2011, 10:54 PM
Not as cool as mine...

Legacy89
03-09-2011, 07:00 AM
what model is the WRX subframe H-brace from?

Mine is not that tailhappy anymore and my suspensionmods are roughly the same as yours.

20mm swaybar front, solid endlinks.
22mm swaybar rear, adjustable endlinks.
Aluminium control arms, front and rear strutbrace.

But it might also be the tyres, i have 205/55/16 Continental studded bought in January.
I recently did all these mods and if and when the tail comes out it is just so manageble.

rougeben83
03-09-2011, 02:03 PM
what model is the WRX subframe H-brace from?

Mine is not that tailhappy anymore and my suspensionmods are roughly the same as yours.

20mm swaybar front, solid endlinks.
22mm swaybar rear, adjustable endlinks.
Aluminium control arms, front and rear strutbrace.

But it might also be the tyres, i have 205/55/16 Continental studded bought in January.
I recently did all these mods and if and when the tail comes out it is just so manageble.

Its from the 02-07 wrx. I can honestly say that the only thing it does is to protect the transmission pan :lol:

Are your control arms from a wrx/sti? Those add another 20mm to the front track. The 05 sti ones also have different geometry that adds positive castor. Front swaybar is 22mm. The front strut tops also add more camber and castor...basically the front end has a lot of grip with the current suspension and alignment, I haven't changed much of the rear suspension to balance it out I think.

But the "tailhappy" nature of my car is pretty much due to the lack of DCCD I think. The 6 speed in my car is really rearward biased with not a lot of redistribution of power to the front if there's slip (center diff defaults to full open if there's no DCCD), when you shift weight to the front (like during braking), it basically unloads the rear and reduce grip on the tires where most of the power is being delivered to. At its current state, it behaves much more like a RWD car...

Legacy89
03-09-2011, 10:24 PM
The cheapes thing you can do then is to fill up the trunk with concrete :lol:

I don't know what model my control arms are from. Yamazaki should know, i got them from him.
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh289/tmjpwns/IMAG0069.jpg
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh289/tmjpwns/IMAG0070.jpg

Needed to replace the left one anyways, got bent after my crash last January.

rougeben83
03-09-2011, 11:46 PM
Since you were able to re-use your crossmember, those are aluminum control arms from a JDM Legacy of some sort or older GC STi/WRX. Those retained the standard track and no changes in geometry or alignment.

rougeben83
04-15-2011, 12:03 AM
Just a lot of little bits and fiddling. My new DP is coming tomorrow so hopefully I won't have a dented DP much longer!

Rear foglight/ third reverse lamp
viewtopic.php?f=10&t=21080 (https://sl-i.net/FORUM/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=21080)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100695-1.jpg

I'm not 100% sure, but with the DCCD controller, the car certainly turns noticeably quicker than I remember...I can also mash the pedal even earlier in a turn (ie the classic "slingshot" feeling that AWD allows you to do), I guess all the other reviewers of the DCCDpro controller are on point; I was doubtful about such changes to the car's handling but I'm starting to agree with them.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100672-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100670-1.jpg

Also added a random decals (+20 hp!)...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100675-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100674-1.jpg

PIAA 2100 driving lights w/ 100w bulbs.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100690-1.jpg

Also washed and waxed the car, put the summer wheels on, random pictures around Detroit once again!

This little house was home to Motown and all the recordings that they did in their heyday...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100680-1.jpg

Big house is big
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100692-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/04/P1100694-1.jpg

PHATsuby
04-15-2011, 12:32 AM
Looks sick Ben! I like the Enkei's on there.

Question on the 6mt shifter boot. Do the new linkages all have the ability to basically "clamp" the boot into the linkage below the reverse collar like that? I remember when I originally did mine I had the boot that had the button snap to get around the collar. I want to have mine like yours because it is a lot cleaner looking for sure.

Also are you from Michigan originally? Just curious as my GF is from there about 15 mins from Flynt, went to MSU.

Ben

rougeben83
04-15-2011, 12:47 AM
Looks sick Ben! I like the Enkei's on there.

Question on the 6mt shifter boot. Do the new linkages all have the ability to basically "clamp" the boot into the linkage below the reverse collar like that? I remember when I originally did mine I had the boot that had the button snap to get around the collar. I want to have mine like yours because it is a lot cleaner looking for sure.

Also are you from Michigan originally? Just curious as my GF is from there about 15 mins from Flynt, went to MSU.

Ben

Thanks Ben, I've been in Detroit for the past few years for med school.

The shifter boot is actually the stock boot - I cut the stitches holding the plastic collar inside the boot and also cut the stitches on one of the seams about 2 inches so I can fit the 6mt collar through. I inverted the boot up to the level of the 6mt collar and used metal chicken wire to tie the boot into the groove on the collar. Then its just a matter of pushing shifter through the boot and it looks like the above :).

fwa2500
04-15-2011, 01:23 AM
woah, woah, woah, hold up a minute. you were in cincy and didnt tell me about it?! if you are down this way at all over the summer, hit me up :P

rougeben83
04-15-2011, 09:15 PM
woah, woah, woah, hold up a minute. you were in cincy and didnt tell me about it?! if you are down this way at all over the summer, hit me up :P

lol yeah, had an interview there...unfortunately that didn't pan out...fortunately, my best friend is moving there so I may be going back to enjoy the skyline (chili) in the near future :smt023

fwa2500
04-15-2011, 10:10 PM
skyline ftw! hope to see you down here soon then :)

Outbackid
06-22-2011, 11:20 PM
Dude, I love skyline chili.

rougeben83
07-21-2011, 11:55 PM
Just some small things...had to change the RPF1's out, the suspension is just too stiff for NYC roads. Went with 16" Borbets. Finally found a set of 16" that can clear the brakes without spacers! Also changed the front pads to some OEM semi-metallic stuff (rockauto sale, $10 :lol:) and repainted the fading silver with red.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/071211154111-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/07/071211153643-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2011/07/071211153613-1.jpg
Love the filled-in look of the brakes behind the wheels...

dodik
07-22-2011, 02:19 PM
you know even if you didnt say NYC i could still tell these shots were taken in Queens somewhere. lol. Borbets look good with VW did you steal those off?

LIMITED
07-26-2011, 04:59 PM
Good looking wheels. suit the car

rougeben83
07-26-2011, 10:47 PM
Thanks guys, the ride is still a bit stiff at the front, but at least its not as teeth-shattering as it was before. I think of maybe even lifting it with outback suspension lol.

Dodik, I think these were not OEM for any VW but they are indeed VW fitment. I actually got them from a guy that thought they could fit on his prius (they stuck out off the fender) :lol:

dodik
07-28-2011, 10:04 AM
well to clear your brakes im going to assume offset is around 35mm that pretty much puts in VW category, plus borbets, miglia, privat wheels are generally for VW folks. We should do a minimeet someday, I bumped into silent a few weeks ago he still drives his gt.

rougeben83
07-29-2011, 11:18 PM
You nailed the offset right on the dot dodik :) Let me know if you guys want to hang out again...I'm going to that PA meet in a couple of weeks if you're down.

BE-Fresh
08-03-2011, 08:33 AM
...I bumped into silent a few weeks ago he still drives his gt.

I forgot he even existed :smt017

rougeben83
01-15-2012, 07:07 PM
Had the rear quarter/rear bumper damage from last winter finally fixed! Also replaced the Summit muffler with a Dynomax Turbo unit for less drone on the highway...still rocking the turndown tip though!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/P1100833-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100837-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/P1100835-1.jpg

Some mild engine bay bling, STi Genome strut brace:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100839-1.jpg

Mild relocation of the catchcan, this was the main reason I didn't get a brace for a while...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/P1100838-1.jpg

r3v_v3ng3
01-15-2012, 11:55 PM
looking good! such a sleeper

rougeben83
01-18-2012, 11:47 AM
A couple of pics from some of the road trips from the past year.

Windsor, Ontario (one of the last pics of the car when I was still living in Detroit)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/040911181406-1.jpg

Boston, MA
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/100211144820-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/01/100211144049-1.jpg

MmmCheese
03-02-2012, 09:07 AM
Love the car man maybe one day my BEige leggy will have this turn out.

rougeben83
04-01-2012, 08:33 PM
Can't enjoy the car when the ride is too stiff for crappy NYC streets, occasionally scrapping on steep ramps was just another hassle, sooo...back to OEM springs with the bilsteins, plus 1/4" strut spacers. Oh and 2011 WRX wheels with 235/45/17 OEM dunlops. The slightly taller tire plays a little optical illusion on people by hiding some of the extra height; it looks like its back to OEM ride height.

Also, found out one of my Comp C tophats had a bad bearing, but Whiteline replaced my C comp tophats for the 2nd time under warranty. No hassle whatsoever, the guys at AZP (local WL dealer) just called them up and explained the problem and they sent a replacement set right away. Got to love them for standing behind their stuff.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/03/032412143243-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/04/P1100889-2.jpg

Picture by Triborough Bridge, part of the Manhattan skyline in the back :)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/P1100882-1.jpg

Huffer
04-02-2012, 10:25 AM
Like it. A lot.

Kansei
04-04-2012, 10:59 AM
you have to have a black intercooler cause i dont see shit...

rougeben83
04-05-2012, 03:40 PM
Indeed :)

rougeben83
05-11-2012, 09:35 AM
Scored a great deal on some lightly used DBA rotors for all 4 wheels...changed the hideous front generic pads and worn rear ebc yellows to some stoptech street pads all around as well. I'm just happy the front brake pads dont start to fade after only 4-5 60-0 stops. Will update with a full review of these pads after a few more miles...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/05/050612085054-1.jpg

r3v_v3ng3
05-15-2012, 04:36 AM
Let us know about the new pads on how it performed. I'm planning to do a z32 calipers on my car with the 05lgt rotors. On comparison the LGT pads are way bigger than the z32

Dead91silvia
05-15-2012, 11:48 AM
I love the out of the box thinking with the brakes! Using Z32 crossed my mind also!

chrish8r
05-16-2012, 11:07 PM
Wow!!! what a sleeper. That retro-fit really looks good and adds that special look to the front of the car... I'm thinking about retro-fitting by 2nd gen two piece headlights

rougeben83
05-20-2012, 11:43 AM
Let us know about the new pads on how it performed. I'm planning to do a z32 calipers on my car with the 05lgt rotors. On comparison the LGT pads are way bigger than the z32

yes the pad sweep area of the LGT caliper is larger than the z32...keep in mind they are basically wider FHI 4pots (use the same pads, hardware, pistons, seals, etc.). The advantages of this combo though is the extra heat capacity of the LGT rotor, saving about 10lbs of unsprung weight vs the LGT caliper, and still being able to use certain 16" wheels, so there are compromises just like any other setup.

The sport pads are pretty good for the money, their performance is very similar to the old Axxis ultimate (now PBR ultimates IIRC) pads; the initial bite isnt as strong as the ult but the progression is more linear, similar to Hawk HPS's. Can't really comment on how much dust they put out since I have gunmetal wheels, but they're definitely not for someone that wants to keep their wheels absolutely clean most of the time.

rougeben83
11-25-2012, 11:32 PM
Tokico HTS shocks installed:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/092212164542-1.jpg

fronts
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/P1110014-1.jpg

rears: (cusco brace has cutouts for adjusters, nice detail I guess)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/100412183224-1.jpg

shock extenders ($30 from TiC and worth it!)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/100412180912-1.jpg

rougeben83
11-25-2012, 11:39 PM
WL HD adjustable rear endlinks (cut to fit)
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/20121125_170636-1.jpg

Finally, an oldie but a goodie, couldn't go without using my RPF1's, so they will be doing winter duty for now. (if the snow gets thick, I'll bring out the 16"s).

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/11/P1110022-1.jpg

rstimpreza
12-21-2012, 06:54 PM
sub'd

rougeben83
02-26-2013, 10:07 AM
After driving 400+ miles total for the MD meet this weekend, I have to say I've fallen in love with my car all over again. This thing really deserves faster, better roads than NYC :-(

98legwag
02-26-2013, 11:24 AM
It was great to see it in person. Very well done.

rougeben83
05-06-2013, 03:05 AM
JDM L7 grille on, going with the 16"s for the camry-look for now. Under the skin, the bilsteins are back on, rear tokico's leaked only after a few months and lost all dampening - not good.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2013/05/20130501_212326_zpsc93d0ab4-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2013/05/20130504_153055_zpsa7faa874-1.jpg

amgarrety
05-06-2013, 10:02 AM
Did you contact Tokico? What are they doing about it?

dodik
05-06-2013, 10:37 AM
damn dude that sucks, hopefully you still have warranty on them.

rougeben83
05-06-2013, 07:38 PM
Unfortunately, because theyre something from japan, tokico usa doesnt have a warranty on them....they put a lettter with the shocks saying so. Anyway, I was never able to dial them in with the setup I was using. The tokicos would be better paired with a higher spring rate IMO. They dont have enought compression to stand on their own, unlike the bilsteins.

rougeben83
08-23-2013, 03:49 AM
Got a flat on the front 16" wheel after work...no big deal, I bring tools for this situation! Until I realize the stock donut spare will not fit over the front brakes...d'oh. Tried the rears...damn rubbing on the 2 pot caliper. Then some idiot opens the fire hydrant across the street and water starts to pour down the gutter where I'm working on the car...damn now my shoes are wet! Called my cousin to pick me up to go to the local tire place to patch the tire...damn again, just rolling 2 blocks chewed out the inside wall of the tire, its gone...went back to the garage, got one of the 17" wrx wheels and drove back to put it on the car (which I left on the jack :lol:).

I just finished mounted all 4 17's wheels on at 12:30 in the morning.

rougeben83
10-08-2013, 01:25 AM
Bit the bullet and got a 2006 WRX 3 spoke steering wheel, not a straight bolt-on due to the airbag plug, but it feels so much nicer than the 4 spokes of the older models...
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/885f67c6caf94e72add58d0c915d2e93_zps22ad-1.jpg

Also, went back to Gold wheels - Enkei RC-T4's. Just some prelim shots for now.


https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2013/10/20131007_224627_zps6f218891-1.jpg

rkrenicki
10-08-2013, 10:18 AM
How does it feel with the smaller steering wheel?

Muse
10-08-2013, 02:55 PM
The gold wheels are gorgeous! less sleeper than normal, but... stunning.

WESTcoast
10-09-2013, 03:50 PM
The Steering wheels looks good in there!!! I like!

Huffer
10-11-2013, 04:34 PM
How does it feel with the smaller steering wheel?

I don't think it's smaller, probably still around 340mm dia. It'll feel different without the middle spoke (vertical, top).

With those Tokico struts, can you cut them and use a Koni insert?

rougeben83
10-12-2013, 07:07 PM
Thanks for the compliments guys. The steering wheel is just slightly smaller than the older wheels (when comparing it to the MOMO side by side, its probably less than 10mm smaller in diameter), but the effort in steering is just a little heavier. The more noticeable difference is the rim is so much thicker and nicer to hold in your hands than the older wheels.

dodik
10-14-2013, 01:32 PM
steering wheel is nice but im mostly curious were did you find that much dirt in queens?

rougeben83
10-14-2013, 02:14 PM
steering wheel is nice but im mostly curious were did you find that much dirt in queens?

hah, a lot of silt/sand around the garage :razz:

Here's some better shots of the wheels. Looked better than I expected!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/27502b54701f4a54b91ca8b69e39dfd9_zps5806-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2013/10/20131013_182529_zps51bfd350-1.jpg

rougeben83
04-27-2014, 11:58 AM
Long story short, missed my exit & tried to make it, I clipped a curb under heavy braking, the rear end started to fishtail, I was trying to catch it when I went over the curb again, hit the lightpole and at that point I was along for the ride. Front slid for another few hundred feet into a tree, airbags deployed - I walked away unscathed. There was small fire from the PS reservoir when it cracked during the impact but I was able to put it out with the extinguisher before any damage happened.

As far as damage, the unibody is done - the rear quarter sustained a good amount of damage, bent even the trunk and blew out the sail window glass. Bent rear control arms most likely as well. I can see the front subframe has shifted from the frontal impact, the engine timing cover is cracked on one side, unsure if the engine threw the timing belt in the process. Rad is pushed into the pulleys. Headlights are both done; I'll salvage the projectors for another project. Electrics still work.

I'm going to be parting out the car as much as I can...the drivetrain is still good, I may keep it for another subaru, maybe?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2007/10/20140418_062347_zps0a81b795-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/04/20140418_054906_zpsa5d4e80c-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/04/20140418_054819_zps1b5bf861-1.jpg
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/04/20140418_054829_zps92adf346-1.jpg

98legwag
04-27-2014, 12:09 PM
Sorry to hear it. May suggest the drivetrain goes in an 818? You know you want to.

Wiscon_Mark
04-27-2014, 12:14 PM
That sucks. So much work in this car over the years.

Hinyo
04-27-2014, 12:41 PM
Buy another. Swap it. Pretend it never Happened. No one will notice. But in all seriousness I'm sorry to hear that man.... love seeing this car at last years meet.

KEEP IT FOR ANOTHER SUBARU!!!!!!!! yes!!!!!

rkrenicki
04-27-2014, 12:51 PM
Mer.. it is worse than I pictured from your description. :( But it is great that you were able to walk away from it.. good ole Subaru safety for the win!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/04/YjE4ac2-1.jpg

Perdue
04-27-2014, 01:18 PM
Glad to see you are ok, but sad to see the death of such an awesome car. Sadly, I found a BE about 2 miles from me that needed a new motor and was for sale for $800...would have been perfect for you.

rougeben83
04-27-2014, 01:41 PM
Mer.. it is worse than I pictured from your description. :( But it is great that you were able to walk away from it.. good ole Subaru safety for the win!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/04/YjE4ac2-1.jpg

Yeah thanks for the support guys. Lol that picture is so true! No subaru ever really dies...small bits of it always live on in other subarus!

I honestly don't know what to do with the car situation at this point. I have enough money to buy a nicer, faster car out of the box, but part of me still would like a car I sorta did up myself. Also, I don't really need another car right now as I still have the van to tool around in.

I was entertaining an 05-07 OBXT to swap the 6mt into lol...they look pretty good when dropped to Legacy height :)

yaya
04-27-2014, 04:56 PM
Holy cow!

Glad to hear you walked away ok.

Lancaster6
04-27-2014, 05:06 PM
Damn, your BE took a serious hit.

Sucks to see but it gave up its life to protect yours! Subaru ftw!

redlegacygt
04-27-2014, 05:16 PM
That sucks man. Hope to see you in another subaru really soon.

amgarrety
04-27-2014, 05:26 PM
:( one of my favorite Subarus and an inspiration to mine.... I'm actually very sad about this...

Glad you're ok though. Hope you stay in the Subaru family!

Yamazaki
04-27-2014, 07:57 PM
:( one of my favorite Subarus and an inspiration to mine.... I'm actually very sad about this...

Glad you're ok though. Hope you stay in the Subaru family!
I must echo this statement. I am very happy that you are okay, but Ben, you've helped this community out so much and I hope you continue to stay in it.

dplacencia
04-27-2014, 09:38 PM
Glad your okay man. Sucks about the car dude.

twoheadedboy
04-27-2014, 10:00 PM
[quote="rougeben83"]Yeah thanks for the support guys. Lol that picture is so true! No subaru ever really dies...small bits of it always live on in other subarus!

Very true, when I sold my 95 Impreza I removed anything that I needed for my Legacy (wheels and tires) and some other stuff to sell on craigslist. Most of it has been sold and on to another Subaru (which is good, even if I still wish I had my impreza :sad11:)