by Grazi07 » Sun Dec 04, 2005 7:35 pm
UPDATE!!!!
Finally got these beasts on and the results are pretty positive. I noticed a very solid increase in low end torque and pickup (even on the currently very slushy New England roads). They look awesome, and save for a few places on the y-pipe fit very well. It rubs a bit on the side of the oil pan and rattles when I de-celerate.
Install almost went easily, but the rear headers were a real pain. Even with the intake manifold off, there was no convenient way to get them in and on. The bolts were pretty rusted, making it harder than it should have been. The EGR tube and O2 sensor holes were placed inconveniently as well. We took a bunch of pics that I should have uploaded tomorrow night and my guys are talking to Megan tomorrow to give our feedback. Dyno date has been set for Fri the 9th, and after that Megan will decide on whether or not to go into production.
After seeing how long it took to install and the results given, my reaction is mixed although I can't wait to see how it is with my S/C and the rest of my exhaust. It was nice to make up for the low-end loss from my CAI. Getting that little extra pop when changing lanes and going from a redlight was noticable, to the point where one of my club buddies has stopped referring to it as the "Slow-ara." It even impressed my buddy with a 400 awhp STi.
I'm lucky to have a sponsorship from a shop that gives me a huuuge labor discount, but for anyone else who would have their local mechanic install these, I think it might be too expensive for what you get. If you can do the wrench work yourself and have lift access, then this is a formidable challenge. I'm concerned the price and time won't be worth the reward.
Dyno results, pics, and feedback from Megan will be coming!
One last thing.. remember my issue with the Y-pipe? I talked to some people about it, and was told that in order to equalize pressure through the system, it's important to keep equal lengths of piping, which is why the piping for headers often resembles a twisty-straw. I think this is part of the reason there's a T-ish bend in the Y-pipe (you'll see in the pics).