Exhaust for my 1997 Legacy GT?

[anwieczo]

Hello I drive a 1997 Subaru Legacy GT. I am interested in upgrading the exhaust, but I cannot find any parts for it. Does anyone know a good place I should start. I have been looking for a header, but I have been told to stay away from Borlas because they are unreliable. Also I am looking for a catback as well, but again am having trouble finding one. Would it be easier to just have one custom built at a shop with a universal muffler? Or could I modify an exhaust from an Impreza RS (lengthen it) to fit? Has anyone ever done this? What would be the best route to take?
Thank you for your time!
Andy from Michigan.

[impreza_GC8]

The Borla style of manifold has been known to crack over time. I have one on my Impreza that has been fine but it was repaired of a crack before I ever bought it. Even if it cracks, just have an exhaust shop weld it. There are no other options for headers unless you go equal length (which I recommend against) because you will lose a lot of the "subaru sound."
As for a catback, my Outback has a WRX SPT exhaust but I had to have it modified to fit. Not only lengthened but all the hangers had to be realigned. If you were willing to pay to have that done then just pick out your favorite WRX or Impreza exhaust and take it to a shop.
I think you might be on to something by having a shop make you an exhaust from scratch, you'll probably end up with exactly what you want that way instead of having to make something else fit. I went with the WRX exhaust because I got a great deal on it and I wanted something that was 3" mandrel bent. Plus, no exhaust shop will touch my car because it is catless.

[TheAngryPidgeon]

I have been told to stay away from Borlas because they are unreliable.


What about their "Million Mile Warranty"? lolz

[Huffer]

The Borla style of manifold has been known to crack over time. I have one on my Impreza that has been fine but it was repaired of a crack before I ever bought it. Even if it cracks, just have an exhaust shop weld it.

Correction. Versions 1-2 of the Borla header cracked around the flanges. Version 3 which sold LESS do not have the cracking problem.

Easiest and cheapest setup you can get for these cars is:

Used Borla or borla-knockoff header $65-$200 (used-new)
Universal hi-flow cat replacement (exhaust shop) $150-$200
Rear O2 sensor spacer $16
Custom mid-pipe mated to whatever axleback you want $150-$180
TOTAL $381-$596

[kevbot]

wwwhat do you guys think about borla 2" s.s. cat back?

where are these borla knock offs at? i cant find them anywhere (on google)

[anothernord]

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

oooo goody! i'm expecting a sound clip from you

[anothernord]

Yeah, i also have a stock 02 wrx laying in the side yard right now. Need to have my neighbor help me install it, but PWT said it sounds like crap with the 02 muffler. So I need to get a new muffler first, and I just dropped $250 for a PP6 ECU, so it may be a while.

Yeah, i also have a stock 02 wrx laying in the side yard right now. Need to have my neighbor help me install it, but PWT said it sounds like crap with the 02 muffler. So I need to get a new muffler first, and I just dropped $250 for a PP6 ECU, so it may be a while.


how would it sound stock from header back?

im in the same boat.. dropped $1300 on a new engine :smt009

[anothernord]

how would it sound stock from header back?

im in the same boat.. dropped $1300 on a new engine :smt009

Hoping it will just sound more rumbly. All the awesome cool JDM ricer kids by the Dairy Queen on College Dr. laugh at me right now. JK. I actually just need better flow for my SC.

Maybe you should get a skidplate? It would save you from having to buy moar enginez amiright?

haha :lol: too bad vdubster just sold his $60 one off, now i get to drop $300 on the 3/16" full armor from primitive racing....

i don't even want dust touching my oil pan now ha

[anothernord]

Fab up your own! :grin: a big plate of aluminum, a metal bandsaw, and a drill and you'll be set!

[anwieczo]

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)
Would this header you have pictured here fit a 1997 Legacy GT?

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)
Would this header you have pictured here fit a 1997 Legacy GT?

yes

[anwieczo]

NICE!! I'm going to order me one as well!

[anwieczo]

Another question for you guys. I am building my own exhaust and am looking at an HKS Hi Power Universal Muffler. Does it matter what size I choose with the stainless tubing I will be using? For example I have a choice between a 170 mm shell muffler or a 130 mm shell muffler. Does this matter or will it fab up to any size tubing I choose to use??

[1-3-2-4]

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

wow how much is the shipping? that's cheaper then the knock-off's i saw on ebay...

I forgot who it was at the SL-i meet but they had the knock off headers with the same magnaflow exhaust.. the car sounded drop dead sexy in person

Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

wow how much is the shipping? that's cheaper then the knock-off's i saw on ebay...

I forgot who it was at the SL-i meet but they had the knock off headers with the same magnaflow exhaust.. the car sounded drop dead sexy in person


i wondered that as well...

[1-3-2-4]

[quote=anothernord]Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

wow how much is the shipping? that's cheaper then the knock-off's i saw on ebay...

I forgot who it was at the SL-i meet but they had the knock off headers with the same magnaflow exhaust.. the car sounded drop dead sexy in person


i wondered that as well...[/quote:1dxp4vk1]


seems like the shipping is free..

[anwieczo]

[quote="1-3-2-4":29yqc4bo][quote=anothernord]Dual port borla knockoffs. These should be coming in the mail soon for me!

http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the- ... for/Detail (http://www.speedyracer.com/servlet/the-173/Subaru-Impreza-Header-for/Detail)

wow how much is the shipping? that's cheaper then the knock-off's i saw on ebay...

I forgot who it was at the SL-i meet but they had the knock off headers with the same magnaflow exhaust.. the car sounded drop dead sexy in person


i wondered that as well...[/quote:29yqc4bo]


seems like the shipping is free..[/quote:29yqc4bo]

I just purchased that header and it was 18.98 shipping with FEDEX ground. So altogether it was 153.98. Might depend on where you live though...

where is it being shipped from?

[1-3-2-4]

boo FedEx...

too bad it's not UPS since I could pick it off the truck before it left out..

I too wonder where it's shipped from as well.

[anwieczo]

boo FedEx...

too bad it's not UPS since I could pick it off the truck before it left out..

I too wonder where it's shipped from as well.

It is being shipped from Indianapolis,Indiana to Davison, Michigan... I tried to use UPS as well, but the company doesn't use them. Can't wait to hear what it will sounds like. Sure hope its not a cheap piece of crap...

[anothernord]

Yeah, it was kinda deceiving, they make it look like it ships free. I ended up using parcel post and it was about $20 to CO. Still cheaper than eBay. I'll let everyone know how they turn out.

Edit: The guy with the knockoffs and magnaflow is blackbk.

[1-3-2-4]

Yeah, it was kinda deceiving, they make it look like it ships free. I ended up using parcel post and it was about $20 to CO. Still cheaper than eBay. I'll let everyone know how they turn out.

yeah.. and like you said still a better deal then ebay most if it's free shipping it's $195

but I will wait for the reviews.

[anwieczo]

Yeah, i also have a stock 02 wrx laying in the side yard right now. Need to have my neighbor help me install it, but PWT said it sounds like crap with the 02 muffler. So I need to get a new muffler first, and I just dropped $250 for a PP6 ECU, so it may be a while.


how would it sound stock from header back?

im in the same boat.. dropped $1300 on a new engine :smt009

If yo don't mind me asking what all did you do to your new motor? I am looking for some ideas because I want to build mine.

[anothernord]

Got my headers today, well, 2 headers actually. Somehow they sent me the right headers, and a set of WRX headers with an up-pipe. Just sittin on the porch. It doesn't look like they charged me though.. :smt017

Oh, and one exhaust gasket was missing.. Oh well, they are crappy ones anyway. Gives me an excuse to get OEM gaskets.

alright! score! some WRX owner is mad about now.. sell them for some bling eh?

[1-3-2-4]

pics? how does the quality look on them?

[anothernord]

Yep there is no shortage of angry WRX owners around here (AWDpirates.com) that would want these headers.

And now pics. You can't really see the welds but they are not terrible. They definately are not the best quality but they will work.

My exhaust bolts are so siezed and rusted together that I couldn't even get them loose with a breaker bar. Guess its time for PB Blaster.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2009/06/IMG_3292-1.jpg

And the random wrx header/up pipe they sent me:

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p310/anothernord/IMG_3294.jpg

[1-3-2-4]

nice not a bad deal!

[anothernord]

Yeah, gave me a good "WTF" moment. Going to install this afternoon if all goes well. Will report with results.

[anwieczo]

I called them AFTER I ordered my header and they said I have to wait two weeks because they ran out and are on back order :smt013

[rougeben83]

I called them AFTER I ordered my header and they said I have to wait two weeks because they ran out and are on back order :smt013

hey man, since youre a semi-local, I got a 2.5" borla catback exhaust from a WRX you can try out. I'm not sure if the length will need to be reworked, but the flange isn't fixed so you can rotate it around and at least not have and exhaust shop fix that.

[anwieczo]

I called them AFTER I ordered my header and they said I have to wait two weeks because they ran out and are on back order :smt013

hey man, since youre a semi-local, I got a 2.5" borla catback exhaust from a WRX you can try out. I'm not sure if the length will need to be reworked, but the flange isn't fixed so you can rotate it around and at least not have and exhaust shop fix that.

Well I already ordered most of the supplies to fab my own setup and I just bought an HKS Hi Power Universal Muffler... All I really need is the header!

[anothernord]

Finally got the headers installed. I was amazed at how an impact wrench could do nothing to the bolts attaching the header to the cat, even after being soaked in PB blaster. Finally we dropped the whole exhaust and cut off the bolts with a sawzall, then finally broke them loose with an impact wrench after more PB blaster.

After that fiasco, they fit perfectly, with no leaks or anything.

As for sound with the stock exhaust, there is no audible difference from inside the car, and outside, not much different either, just more distinct pulses. Still sounds like a raspberry (thhhhhbbbbbbbhhhhh). I will need a full exhaust to bring out the rumble.

Power gains from just the header and the restrictive exhaust are not much. Just a little more kick between 2-3K rpm. Nothing to get too excited about, but again, a full exhaust will help.

[1-3-2-4]

I was wondering how it would sound with the stock exhaust at least until I can get a shop to make a new rear axleback.

[ScaryFatKidGT]

haha :lol: too bad vdubster just sold his $60 one off, now i get to drop $300 on the 3/16" full armor from primitive racing....

i don't even want dust touching my oil pan now ha

NICE! after i get headers im getting one

im looking to get the WRX UEL's on ebay (the ones that exit to the rear and not up) only about 120 shipped just get a custom pipe to the cat, and i have heard they have more of the boxer rumble than borlas cuz of there 2-1 versus 4-2-1 design

[1-3-2-4]

I wonder are they still backordered? I will be away for a week starting June 28th

[anwieczo]

haha :lol: too bad vdubster just sold his $60 one off, now i get to drop $300 on the 3/16" full armor from primitive racing....

i don't even want dust touching my oil pan now ha

NICE! after i get headers im getting one

im looking to get the WRX UEL's on ebay (the ones that exit to the rear and not up) only about 120 shipped just get a custom pipe to the cat, and i have heard they have more of the boxer rumble than borlas cuz of there 2-1 versus 4-2-1 design

Your saying that you can modify a WRX header to fit a N/A 2.5? Where do you find these headers? Also how do you have to modify your pipe to the cat?

[anwieczo]

I wonder are they still backordered? I will be away for a week starting June 28th
They said it would take two weeks for re-stocking. I ordered mine exactly two weeks from tomorrow. I am going to call them tomorrow and see if they have them in yet. I will post if they do...

[1-3-2-4]

I wonder are they still backordered? I will be away for a week starting June 28th
They said it would take two weeks for re-stocking. I ordered mine exactly two weeks from tomorrow. I am going to call them tomorrow and see if they have them in yet. I will post if they do...


:( Oh well maybe by July they will be back

[impreza_GC8]

im looking to get the WRX UEL's on ebay (the ones that exit to the rear and not up) only about 120 shipped just get a custom pipe to the cat, and i have heard they have more of the boxer rumble than borlas cuz of there 2-1 versus 4-2-1 design
A WRX header will have a place for the turbo to bolt to. Its not gonna work on your NA car. I can't comment on whether they have "more" boxer rumble but I will say the number of collectors isn't what causes the rumble, its the unequal length of the piping.



im in the same boat.. dropped $1300 on a new engine :smt009
Are you serious? 1300 could've gotten you an EJ20G motor and trans. You could be rolling with 18psi of boost right now for the same exact price.

[1-3-2-4]

the turbo headers tend to have a deeper sound since the turbo blocks some of the flow.

I've heard some deep sounding N/A headers but the turbo tends to always win in the long run.

[impreza_GC8]

the turbo headers tend to have a deeper sound since the turbo blocks some of the flow.

I've heard some deep sounding N/A headers but the turbo tends to always win in the long run.

There's more going on there than just a manifold difference. Turbo cars have a different compression ratio, different heads, the turbo creates a different path for the exhaust. Its not just a matter of header difference and I think that using a WRX header and then fabbing up a pipe to dump the exhaust 180 degrees right back down would cause more of a flow restriction than a good NA specific exhaust would have.

[Huffer]

If we're discussing sound now then people should also know that the turbo acts as a muffler for the exhaust flow.

[ScaryFatKidGT]

haha :lol: too bad vdubster just sold his $60 one off, now i get to drop $300 on the 3/16" full armor from primitive racing....

i don't even want dust touching my oil pan now ha

NICE! after i get headers im getting one

im looking to get the WRX UEL's on ebay (the ones that exit to the rear and not up) only about 120 shipped just get a custom pipe to the cat, and i have heard they have more of the boxer rumble than borlas cuz of there 2-1 versus 4-2-1 design

Your saying that you can modify a WRX header to fit a N/A 2.5? Where do you find these headers? Also how do you have to modify your pipe to the cat?
i know this one has ended but im pretty sure this will fit with just a pipe from it to the cat pipe


http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Subaru-I ... ccessories (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Subaru-Impreza-WRX-02-03-04-07-Exhaust-Header-Manifold_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trkparmsZ72Q3a1171Q7c66Q3a2Q7c65Q3a12Q7c39Q3a1Q7c240Q3a1318Q7c301Q3a0Q7c293Q3a4Q7c294Q3a50QQ_trksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em14QQhashZitem170310383133QQitemZ170310383133QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories)

[anwieczo]

Headers are in. I spoke with them on the phone today. Get your orders in if you want one because they ship out tomorrow and they go fast!!!

[anothernord]

Another update: The headers cause the ECU to throw the infamous P0420. Looks like I need a rear O2 sensor spacer.

[anwieczo]

Another update: The headers cause the ECU to throw the infamous P0420. Looks like I need a rear O2 sensor spacer.
What causes the headers to throw the PO420 code and what is it code for? Will a rear O2 sensor spacer fix this? Would I have this problem if I am replacing the WHOLE exhaust from header to muffler? (which is what I am doing...) Does this code affect how the car runs?

[anothernord]

Another update: The headers cause the ECU to throw the infamous P0420. Looks like I need a rear O2 sensor spacer.
What causes the headers to throw the PO420 code and what is it code for? Will a rear O2 sensor spacer fix this? Would I have this problem if I am replacing the WHOLE exhaust from header to muffler? (which is what I am doing...) Does this code affect how the car runs?


The increased flow of the headers cause only the rear o2 sensor to get more flow, therefore increasing its output voltage, and throwing a CEL (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold).

The spacer will fix this, as it will remove it from the exhaust stream so it gets less of a reading.

If you replace the whole exhaust, you may or may not get the CEL, but if you do, just install the spacer. They are 18mm I believe.

The rear O2 sensor basically only has one purpose, to make sure your cats are working by comparing the signal with the front o2 sensor with the rear. Ir hasn't affected any bit of drivability or performance for me.

[2.5GT]

anothernord

Did the header made a "sewing machine" sound? kinda like there's a leak from the header but it's really not, you can hear the valve train through those thin wall collectors.

I bought a set off ebay that looks just like that. The fitment was off and made the horrible sound like i described. The only way to get rid of it is wrap it :cry:

[anothernord]

From inside the car, there is no difference in sound at all, but with the windows down driving past a wall, I can hear the "sewing machine" sound. It doesn't bother me that much but I'm getting the rest of the exhaust upgraded so it should end up sounding rumbly.

[2.5GT]

I have the replica, stock cats, mid pipe with no resonators, and a magnaflow axleback and still, i can hear it loud and clear! especially going through a barrier...SSHHHSHSHHHSH :roll:

[anothernord]

Huh, so you say wrap will make it quieter?

[)2edline]

I was gonna post something about that sound. What the heck is that, lol. I was so pissed cus after all the trouble I went through getting it on, I thought I had the most annoying leak.

Other common remedies? I haven't scanned my CEL, which was from the EGR valve problem that is incurable, but I hope I don't have the o2sensor one as well.

[anwieczo]

What kind of material would I want to use to wrap the header with? I might as well just wrap it before I even put it on the car... :roll:

[Huffer]

Exhaust wrap is the ONLY kind of material you want to use to wrap a header. IMHO not worth it - just get a rear O2 spacer & make sure all the flanges fit right with the correct gaskets.

[2.5GT]

Huh, so you say wrap will make it quieter?

From what I've read over at RS25, yes.

Some ceramic header wrap should do the trick. I believe some of the knockoffs made the "sewing machine" sound, real Borlas do not.

I know mine for a fact, it does not have a leak and you can definitely hear the valvetrain through those thin ass collectors.

[anwieczo]

Huh, so you say wrap will make it quieter?

From what I've read over at RS25, yes.

Some ceramic header wrap should do the trick. I believe some of the knockoffs made the "sewing machine" sound, real Borlas do not.

I know mine for a fact, it does not have a leak and you can definitely hear the valvetrain through those thin ass collectors.
Will warping the header cause it to crack? I have heard of this happening to some Honda owners before... I am not sure if the stainless steel will not crack because its steel...

[2.5GT]

Depending on where you live. Over time, water, salt and other crap will trap into the header and causing it to rust out or crack. That's from what I've read and it seems pretty plausible.

You can spray a light coat of ceramic high temp. paint on the header and let it sit to cure, wrap the whole thing, then spray another coat on the wrap.

I might be thinking of doing this when i get the time. I'm tired of that stupid noise :neutral:

[kevbot]

you guys know where to get the proper gaskets and o2 sensor/spacers? I'm replacing both cats and axleback/muffler.

[jey]

you guys know where to get the proper gaskets and o2 sensor/spacers? I'm replacing both cats and axleback/muffler.

Dealership - O2 sensors will plug and play. If you don't mind splicing you can save a few bucks and buy generic O2 sensors at any auto parts store.

[anwieczo]

Well I just had my exhaust custom made and honestly those headers we bought are not bad at all. The header went on relatively easily other than my stock studs being rusted on(a lot of drilling!) I honestly don't hear the valvetrain noise everyone is talking about. I am not sure if this is because my car is catless or if its the muffler I am using but I don't seem to hear it :smt017 . The car sounds really good with a deep aggressive tone. I will post some pics later when I get done installing a few other parts.

[chuckthefuk]

Valve train noise? I have the same setup with a hi-flow cat and I cant hear my lifters unless I am at 5500+ rpm.



you guys know where to get the proper gaskets and o2 sensor/spacers? I'm replacing both cats and axleback/muffler.

Dealership - O2 sensors will plug and play. If you don't mind splicing you can save a few bucks and buy generic O2 sensors at any auto parts store.

Don't splice! For every splice can causes more resistance which potentially leads you to irregular readings. Even the O2 extenders can cause this. You can get the universal O2 spacers from ebay for less then $30 after shipping.

-Chuck

[anothernord]

For the spacer, you can use "help" brand spark plug non foulers, then drill them out so the sensor fits. Check my DIY called "cel p0420 fix.

[1-3-2-4]

My headers are leaking it's bad enough to sound like a lifter.. so I have a reason to change and get it over with :D I had planned to do it but it was not something major.

[Navi271]

i have to stupid sewing sound too, haven't been really annoyed about it so i haven't thought about doing anything to fix it.
I have the P0420 CEL also, just got all exhaust leaks fixed and its still throwing it out, funny thing is my gas mileage is always lower, like to around 20-21mpg (keep in mind im driving a '95 legacy L 2.2L) I used to get like 24mpg city and 28 highway. So now I want to get a "high" flow cat and do anothernord's P0420 fix so hopefully the CEL will go away for good! and it'll upgrade the exhaust too.

Thinking about wrapping the headers too now that i'm reading this thread.. If i do any of this i'll let you all know

[1-3-2-4]

hmm I wonder if I will have the same issues..

[anothernord]

You will most likely get the P0420 with the headers. I used the 2 spacers for the rear O2 and I haven't had it reoccur since.

[green97gt]

ok...so maybe this is stupid....

but on my dodge truck, i swapped a 318 v8 and headers etc. i got a o2/cat code i dont remember which, but i just removed the rear o2 and plugged the hole. let the sensor dangle, i actually zip tied it to the frame rail.

isnt adding spacers essentially removing the rear o2 from the exhaust stream? and if so why not just take it out and plug the hole in the exhaust?

please someone enlightern me.

:smt030

[anothernord]

ok...so maybe this is stupid....

but on my dodge truck, i swapped a 318 v8 and headers etc. i got a o2/cat code i dont remember which, but i just removed the rear o2 and plugged the hole. let the sensor dangle, i actually zip tied it to the frame rail.

isnt adding spacers essentially removing the rear o2 from the exhaust stream? and if so why not just take it out and plug the hole in the exhaust?

please someone enlightern me.

:smt030

If you remove it too much it will throw a code because it isn't seeing enough signal.

[1-3-2-4]

You will most likely get the P0420 with the headers. I used the 2 spacers for the rear O2 and I haven't had it reoccur since.


Don't know if you said but how long did it take for the code to pop up with the headers?

[anothernord]

You will most likely get the P0420 with the headers. I used the 2 spacers for the rear O2 and I haven't had it reoccur since.


Don't know if you said but how long did it take for the code to pop up with the headers?

It didn't come up for a while actually, it just came while I was cruising at 55 down a county road. Others on RS2.5 seem to confirm that it is more likely to pop up under highway cruising.

[Navi271]

hmm.. highway cruising you say?? so did mine, and now that i think about it, every time i cleared the CEL it would come back on when i was on the highway...

[anothernord]

hmm.. highway cruising you say?? so did mine, and now that i think about it, every time i cleared the CEL it would come back on when i was on the highway...

Yep, something about how a constant high volume of exhaust causes the CEL.

[seattlelegacy2.2]

:happy1: :read2:

[1-3-2-4]

Is the Oxygen Spacer only a Ebay thing? Going to order the headers early tomorrow morning and anyone here use the gaskets that came with them?

[anothernord]

Is the Oxygen Spacer only a Ebay thing? Going to order the headers early tomorrow morning and anyone here use the gaskets that came with them?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/viewtopic.php?f=39&t=14675

[1-3-2-4]

Hmm.. and I take it the ebay spacers need to be drilled too? (I don't have a drill press) Nor do I have a vice.

[anothernord]

Hmm.. and I take it the ebay spacers need to be drilled too? (I don't have a drill press) Nor do I have a vice.

Yep. All you need is something to keep it from spinning. You could even use a crescent wrench and sort of ghetto-hold it while you drill. I just used a plain old power drill.

Edit: They are spacers from Checker's I don't know anything about finding them on ebay.

[1-3-2-4]

lol I burned out the power plug on my cordless but I know where I can use a sweet power drill So I should have everything worked out.

[jey]

Yeah I used my cordless drill and did it in my sink (it gets really hot so running cold water on it while drilling helps.) Used a pipe wrench to hold it and just drilled away.

[1-3-2-4]

Yeah I used my cordless drill and did it in my sink (it gets really hot so running cold water on it while drilling helps.) Used a pipe wrench to hold it and just drilled away.


yeah I thought about my pipe wrench I have and I can use that.. I forgot I had to use it for something else I had to drill.

picked up the plugs but can't find my drill bits lmao...

a 1/2" bit wow not cheap... I better look harder :walk:

[1-3-2-4]

Man this Speedyracer.. I don't know if I should of picked another vendor.. the number I called on the site seems to be a fax so I emailed them to see what's up.

[anothernord]

I found a number for their office and I was helped almost immediately. Don't know where the number went but it is findable.

[HeresMyMind]

alright guys let me give you my take on exhausts since i've had a few. I will always go with stromung/cobb in future cars because of how well they have served me, they look, sound and work amazing.

Headers,
-I HAD borla headers and the ticking with them was loud and annoying. the welds were crummy, and they were welded on the inside section of the flanges. NOT the outside. bought them with a small crack, i welded it up, and they cracked again at the flange for the cat pipe. Put new welds all the way around every flange and sold em for 50$.
-I put on replica headers about 2 weeks ago, the welds were better quality IMO, the ticking is still there, but NOT as loud. found out with an oil change that these headers only work with the Bosche filter or Mobile 1 filter. the fram tough gaurds are too big. the bosch filter barely fits and you have to loosen the headers slightly to get it to come off. the mobile 1 is smaller than the rest and doesn't require any fabrication to install/remove

cat pipe,
-Installed a stromung HFC about a year back, I installed the rear o2 sensor spacer (anti-fouler spark plug thing). and have never thrown a code and I did pass emissions here in CT. Also was nice to use this pipe to install my wideband 02 sensor for my AEM wideband kit

Mid Pipe,
-Stromung mid pipe (non-resonated). Install was simple, its a simple part. IF you use a High Flow Cat, and you have a louder axleback i HIGHLY recommend getting a resonator welded into the midpipe to cut down on rasp, I had a HKS axleback for less than 30 minutes because of how obnoxious it was.

Axle Back,
-SPT was my first one, and although it looked much nicer than stock, and it was slightly louder. once i put on headers and the rest of the exhaust the SPT sounded thin and "tin like". Also noted: the SPT axleback retains stock piping diameter 2"
-Stromung Catback single tip. By far best exhaust for our cars in my opinion, nice and rumbly in town, little to no drone on highways. Also since it looks somewhat stock, I have never been pulled over for exhaust noise or illegal exhaust mods like the Impreza guys do here in CT

-B

[Navi271]

YOU ARE TOTALLY RIGHT!! i have the SPT exhaust and the knockoff headers and i'm sick of the sound!
So pretty much stromung is the way to go? Is this the same stuff off of boxer4racing.com? I've wondered how well it fit on a wagon...

[1-3-2-4]

I was going to get a maganflow muffler with new piping for it

[Navi271]

^^ a much cheaper alternative than stromung stuff..

[HeresMyMind]

buy it off the 25rs forums used. much cheaper. also the OBX catback for a subaru RS. just have to move 1 exhaust hangedr on the muffler and it sounds just the same without the stromung name. as stromung is made for each car indivdually if u get it from boxer4racingf

-B

[1-3-2-4]

I never really cared for the way stromung stuff sounded.

[1-3-2-4]

man I must of got a shitty drill bit I got about halfway and it's not drilling anymore.

[Navi271]

man I must of got a shitty drill bit I got about halfway and it's not drilling anymore.
haha, same happened to me tonight too, steel doesn't want to be drilled that much now does it.. AND i cannot get that 02 sensor off for the life of me... i guess i'll use more of that PB blaster stuff??
Got my headers heat wrapped today. no more sewing sound, just the purring of the SPT axleback, Awesome!!

[1-3-2-4]

Got any sound clips? all the clips on youtube are turbo WRx models

[Navi271]

Got any sound clips? all the clips on youtube are turbo WRx models
i can try, all i have is a digital camera which probably won't get much of the rumbly.

[jey]

man I must of got a shitty drill bit I got about halfway and it's not drilling anymore.
haha, same happened to me tonight too, steel doesn't want to be drilled that much now does it.. AND i cannot get that 02 sensor off for the life of me... i guess i'll use more of that PB blaster stuff??
Got my headers heat wrapped today. no more sewing sound, just the purring of the SPT axleback, Awesome!!

Find a drill bit that is designed for metal.

Use a bigger breaker bar on that O2 sensor.

[1-3-2-4]

man I must of got a shitty drill bit I got about halfway and it's not drilling anymore.
haha, same happened to me tonight too, steel doesn't want to be drilled that much now does it.. AND i cannot get that 02 sensor off for the life of me... i guess i'll use more of that PB blaster stuff??
Got my headers heat wrapped today. no more sewing sound, just the purring of the SPT axleback, Awesome!!

Find a drill bit that is designed for metal.

Use a bigger breaker bar on that O2 sensor.

I used a HSS bit (crappy) I finally did get it to open up


http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/223/pict0049y.jpg

[Navi271]

NICE backround lol, ok i'll try a massive breaker bar

[1-3-2-4]

Juuust got off the phone with speedy racer the guy (seems like a single guy running it)

I noticed money taken out of my account so I wanted to call to see if it was him.. the funny thing was I think I was the only one who ordered because all I had to say was I was checking up on my order and he said Oh yes Mike Lewis I just processed it about 30 min ago and Fedex should be here in about 4 hours.. (I ordered USPS) but we will see..

So I take that back about speedyracer they just don't operate on weekends.

[Navi271]

Got the P0420 DIY done today and i've driven it on the highway for about 30 miles and still no CEL, hope i fixed it!

[1-3-2-4]

headers arrived lol I paid for USPS shipping but I got FedEx for less cost They still suck I heard a thud at my door and I open it up and I see the box says impreza headers lol..


https://sl-i.net/FORUM/
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/

[1-3-2-4]

Holy hell how did you get the oxygen sensor off? you guys must of used a deep socket? I don't have one and it's getting late so it will have to wait until tomorrow at least.. just the headers alone sounds mean :P

but that Sensor is on ass tight.. PB was not helping at all.

[Huffer]

Use an offset O2 socket- you can find them on harborfreight tools or good auto parts/tool stores.

[jey]

I used this:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/

[1-3-2-4]

I used this:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/


I had a pair of slip joint's and they did not help too..

I think the increase in air flow is making my car run rich which is why I have a lumpy idle that is going up and down..

the interesting part is it wont start to do it until after I came to a stop for about 30 seconds or so.

[Navi271]

I had a pair of slip joint's and they did not help too..

I think the increase in air flow is making my car run rich which is why I have a lumpy idle that is going up and down..

the interesting part is it wont start to do it until after I came to a stop for about 30 seconds or so.
My neighbor back home works at a muffler shop so after getting the car on the lift they could really get some leverage to break that sucker off! (for free!)
That idle thing is kinda weird, and it takes so long for it to start.. idk, my car does not do that. keep an eye on it

[1-3-2-4]

SO I go out and to the car and I start it it's very hard to tell where it's coming from but it's someplace from the headers to the first cat I just can't tell where.. It's very annoying on throttle..

I'm about to grab some sound clips if I can find a decent parking lot size.

[1-3-2-4]

Ok I think i figured out why I have the leak and I'm pretty sure it's between the headers and cat.. I used the gasket that came with the kit (tsk tsk) and so I went to pick up the Subaru gasket while it's thinner it has seals near the inside area of the piping.. However the gasket looks like it's meant to go on one way and I'm sure sure if it's in the FSM manual or not.

[1-3-2-4]

almost forgot to say I drove all the way to Pawtucket, R.I. yesterday with the new headers and no o2 spacer and never got a CEL.. weird, huh?

[Navi271]

yeah that is kinda weird! i've heard some ppl not having trouble tho, just doesn't seem to happen very often. PLUS no sewing machine so myabe you just got lucky!
... but lucky with what? did they make your's different or something?! lol

[1-3-2-4]

I don't know