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The Subaru WRX has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts, especially when it comes to tuning and performance upgrades. One of the most significant modifications for the WRX is the installation of a flex fuel kit, which allows the vehicle to run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol. However, to maximize the benefits of this upgrade, choosing the right intercooler is crucial. In this article, we will compare various intercoolers available for the WRX flex fuel kit, focusing on their efficiency and power gains.
Understanding Intercoolers
Intercoolers play a vital role in turbocharged engines by cooling the air that enters the engine. Cooler air is denser, allowing for more oxygen to be packed into the combustion chamber, which results in increased power output. When upgrading to a flex fuel kit, the engine can handle more aggressive tuning, making an efficient intercooler even more critical.
Types of Intercoolers
- Top-Mount Intercoolers (TMIC)
- Front-Mount Intercoolers (FMIC)
- Liquid-to-Air Intercoolers
Top-Mount Intercoolers (TMIC)
Top-mount intercoolers are located directly above the engine, which can be advantageous for space-saving and ease of installation. However, they often suffer from heat soak, especially in high-performance applications. This can limit their effectiveness when running a flex fuel setup.
Front-Mount Intercoolers (FMIC)
Front-mount intercoolers are positioned at the front of the vehicle, allowing for better airflow and cooling efficiency. They are generally more effective than TMICs, especially in high-performance scenarios. When paired with a flex fuel kit, FMICs can significantly improve power gains due to their ability to maintain lower intake temperatures.
Liquid-to-Air Intercoolers
Liquid-to-air intercoolers use a liquid coolant to absorb heat from the intake air. This type of intercooler can provide superior cooling performance but may require more complex installation and maintenance. They are ideal for extreme performance builds where maximizing power is the primary goal.
Comparing Performance Metrics
When comparing intercoolers for the WRX flex fuel kit, several performance metrics should be considered, including:
- Cooling efficiency
- Pressure drop
- Weight
- Installation complexity
- Cost
Cooling Efficiency
Cooling efficiency refers to how well an intercooler can reduce the temperature of the intake air. FMICs generally outperform TMICs in this category due to their larger surface area and better airflow. Liquid-to-air intercoolers can achieve the lowest intake temperatures but at a higher cost and complexity.
Pressure Drop
Pressure drop measures the reduction in boost pressure as air passes through the intercooler. A lower pressure drop is preferable as it means more boost reaches the engine. FMICs often have a better design to minimize pressure drop compared to TMICs.
Weight
The weight of the intercooler can impact the overall performance of the vehicle. TMICs are typically lighter than FMICs, which can be an advantage in terms of handling. However, the benefits of a heavier FMIC in terms of performance may outweigh the disadvantages of added weight.
Installation Complexity
Installation complexity varies between intercoolers. TMICs are generally easier to install, while FMICs may require more modifications to the vehicle. Liquid-to-air intercoolers often involve the most complex installation due to additional plumbing and cooling systems.
Cost
Cost is always a consideration when upgrading components. TMICs tend to be the most affordable option, while FMICs and liquid-to-air intercoolers can be significantly more expensive. However, investing in a higher-quality intercooler can yield better performance and efficiency gains.
Recommended Intercoolers for WRX Flex Fuel Kit
Based on the performance metrics discussed, here are some recommended intercoolers for the WRX flex fuel kit:
- GrimmSpeed Top-Mount Intercooler
- Process West Verticooler
- TurboXS Front-Mount Intercooler
- ETS Front-Mount Intercooler
- CSF Liquid-to-Air Intercooler
GrimmSpeed Top-Mount Intercooler
The GrimmSpeed TMIC is known for its high-quality construction and good performance. While it may not be the most efficient option for extreme power builds, it provides a solid balance for daily driving and moderate tuning.
Process West Verticooler
The Process West Verticooler is a popular choice among WRX owners. It offers excellent cooling efficiency and minimal pressure drop, making it a great option for those running a flex fuel kit.
TurboXS Front-Mount Intercooler
The TurboXS FMIC is designed for performance enthusiasts seeking maximum gains. With a large core and efficient design, it provides significant cooling benefits and is well-suited for high horsepower applications.
ETS Front-Mount Intercooler
ETS offers a high-performance FMIC that excels in both cooling efficiency and pressure drop. It is a top contender for those looking to push their WRX to new limits with a flex fuel setup.
CSF Liquid-to-Air Intercooler
The CSF liquid-to-air intercooler is designed for serious performance builds. With its advanced cooling capabilities, it can handle extreme power levels while maintaining optimal intake temperatures.
Conclusion
Choosing the right intercooler for your WRX flex fuel kit is essential for maximizing efficiency and power gains. Each type of intercooler has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and performance goals. Whether you opt for a TMIC, FMIC, or a liquid-to-air intercooler, investing in quality components will yield the best results for your WRX.