Upgrading a Subaru WRX with a Brian Crower Stage 2 camshaft is one of the most cost-effective ways to unlock substantial horsepower gains without sacrificing daily drivability. For roughly $750 in parts and a weekend of careful work, you can transform your WRX’s power curve, throttle response, and engine character. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Brian Crower Stage 2 cam upgrade: what it is, how to install it properly, a complete cost breakdown, and the decisions that will save you money and headaches.

Why the Brian Crower Stage 2 Cam for the Subaru WRX?

The Subaru WRX’s 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine responds exceptionally well to valvetrain upgrades. The factory camshafts are designed for a broad torque curve and emissions compliance, leaving significant power on the table. The Brian Crower Stage 2 camshaft is a drop-in replacement that improves both lift and duration to increase airflow into the combustion chamber. This means more air and fuel can be packed in during each cycle, resulting in a noticeable bump in horsepower and torque, particularly in the mid-to-upper RPM range.

Brian Crower has been a respected name in the Subaru performance community for years. Their Stage 2 camshafts are CNC-machined from billet steel, hardened for longevity, and ground with profiles that work well with stock valve springs for most WRX models. That compatibility keeps the total cost low while still delivering a 20–30 wheel-horsepower gain when combined with supporting mods and a proper tune.

Key Benefits

  • Increased horsepower and torque: Typical gains of 20–30 whp with proper tuning.
  • Improved throttle response: Sharper tip-in and less lag from the turbo.
  • Enhanced engine sound: The boxer rumble becomes more pronounced with the altered overlap.
  • Retains factory reliability: No need for upgraded springs or retainers in most applications.

Understanding the Costs: A $750 Investment

The headline $750 figure covers the camshaft itself, necessary gaskets and seals, and a few critical consumables. Here is a realistic breakdown for a DIY installation on a 2002–2014 WRX (EJ20 or EJ25):

Parts Cost Breakdown

Item Estimated Price
Brian Crower Stage 2 Camshaft (pair) $499
Valve cover gasket set $25
Cam seal kit (front & rear) $30
Timing belt or chain components (if needed) $0–$100
Coolant, oil, and sealant $30
Total parts (DIY) ~$584–$684

If you choose to have a professional shop install the camshaft, labor will typically run $200–$400, bringing the total to around $750–$850. Many owners find the DIY route rewarding and cost-effective, but it requires mechanical experience and a clean workspace.

Installation Tips and Step-by-Step Guide

Proper installation is everything with camshaft upgrades. A slight timing error can cause bent valves, piston-to-valve contact, or poor performance. Follow these steps carefully. Always reference your specific WRX model’s factory service manual.

Tools You Will Need

  • Metric socket set (10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 22mm)
  • Torque wrench (ft-lb and in-lb ranges)
  • Cam gear holding tool or a strong breaker bar
  • Timing belt pinning tool (if applicable)
  • Feeler gauge for checking valve clearance
  • Seal puller or pry tool
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, and assembly lube

Step 1: Preparation

Disconnect the battery and drain the coolant. Remove the radiator fans and any components blocking access to the timing cover. On most WRX models, this means pulling the radiator fan shroud, accessory belts, and the crankshaft pulley. Support the engine if you need to remove the passenger side engine mount for clearance.

Step 2: Remove the Timing Belt or Chain

Before removing the camshafts, you must correctly position the engine at Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke for cylinder #1. Mark the timing belt’s relationship with the cam gears and crank sprocket using white paint or a marker. Loosen the tensioner, slide off the belt, and remove the cam gears. If your WRX uses a timing chain (some later models), you will need to remove the chain tensioner and slide off the chain, taking care not to rotate the crankshaft independently.

Step 3: Remove the Camshafts

Unbolt the valve covers. The camshaft caps are numbered and must be returned to their exact locations. Loosen the cap bolts gradually in a cross pattern to prevent warping. Lift the caps off and remove the factory camshafts. Note that the intake and exhaust cams are different; label them as you remove them.

Step 4: Install the Brian Crower Stage 2 Cam

Thoroughly clean the cam journals and apply assembly lube to the new camshaft lobes and bearing surfaces. Place the new camshafts into the heads, ensuring the keyways align with the cam gear positions. Re-install the cam caps in the correct orientation and torque them to factory specifications in the proper sequence (usually starting from the center caps and working outward). Typical torque is 14–18 ft-lb for the EJ series.

Step 5: Set Cam Timing

This is the most critical step. With the cam gears re-installed (or the chain re-fitted), align the timing marks according to your service manual. Rotate the engine by hand at least two full revolutions to confirm that there is no interference and that the marks line up again. If they don’t, repeat the process. A slight misalignment can lead to a serious engine failure.

Step 6: Reassembly and Break-In

Install new valve cover gaskets, reinstall the covers, and refill all fluids. Start the engine and let it idle for 15–20 minutes while watching for oil pressure and leaks. Do not rev the engine during the initial break-in. After the idle period, vary the RPM gently for the first 50 miles. Avoid sustained highway speeds or heavy boost until the cam has fully seated.

Change the oil and filter after this break-in period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Reusing old timing components: If your timing belt is near its service interval, replace it now. A belt failure will destroy your new cam and valves.
  • Skipping the valve clearance check: Even with a drop-in cam, verifying clearances is wise, especially on higher-mileage engines.
  • Incorrect cam cap torque or sequence: Overtorquing or uneven tightening can bind the cam and cause catastrophic wear.
  • Ignoring the need for a tune: Brian Crower Stage 2 cams require a re-tune of the ECU to realize their full potential. Running them without a tune can result in a rough idle, reduced power, or even lean conditions.

Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Installation

Deciding whether to tackle this job yourself comes down to your mechanical comfort level and tools. The Brian Crower cam swap is an intermediate-level job. Owners with basic engine experience, a good service manual, and patience can complete it in a weekend. Savings from DIY installation are typically $200–$400.

If you are not confident in your ability to set cam timing precisely, or if you lack a full set of tools, a professional installation is money well spent. A mistake here can cost thousands in engine repairs. Many Subaru specialty shops can complete the swap in 3–4 hours, making labor costs manageable.

Performance Gains and Tuning Requirements

On a mostly stock WRX, the Brian Crower Stage 2 cam will not magically add 50 horsepower. But combined with a downpipe, intake, and a professional tune, it is a key component in reaching the 280–320 wheel-horsepower range. The cam changes the engine’s VE (volumetric efficiency) curve, shifting the powerband higher. Many drivers report that the car pulls harder from 3,500 RPM to redline, and the turbo spools more eagerly.

You must have your ECU re-tuned after installing these cams. The stock ECU’s fuel and ignition maps are optimized for the factory cam timing. With the new cam, the engine may experience idle instability, misfires, or knocked under boost. A reputable tuner (e.g., using Cobb Accessport or open-source tuning) can dial in the fuel, timing, and idle parameters for a smooth, safe power increase. Budget at least $350–$500 for a custom dyno tune or an e-tune.

Additional Upgrades That Pair Well

To get the most from the Stage 2 cam, consider these companion mods:

  • Turbo-back exhaust: A 3-inch downpipe and cat-back system reduce backpressure and help the engine breathe.
  • High-flow fuel pump: A Walbro 255 or AEM 340 ensures adequate fuel delivery at higher RPM.
  • Upgraded intercooler: Reduces intake air temperatures for more consistent power.
  • Lightweight crank pulley: Reduces rotational mass and improves throttle response further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Brian Crower Stage 2 cam work with stock valve springs?

Yes, for most WRX EJ20 and EJ25 engines, the Stage 2 cam profile is moderate enough to avoid valve float at stock RPM limits. However, if you plan to rev beyond 7,200 RPM, upgrading to stiffer springs is recommended.

Do I need to replace the timing belt or chain?

It is not strictly required, but it is a best practice. Since you are already removing the belt or chain to change the cam, replacing it adds minimal cost and eliminates a future maintenance concern.

How long does installation take?

A first-timer should budget 8–12 hours. Experienced mechanics can do it in 4–6 hours including the timing and break-in.

Can I install these cams without removing the engine?

Yes, the camshafts are accessible with the engine in the car. You only need to remove the timing covers, valve covers, and the radiator fans for clearance.

Where to Buy and Additional Resources

Purchase the Brian Crower Stage 2 cam from reputable Subaru performance shops such as Brian Crower’s official site or vendors like Import Image Racing. For detailed installation walkthroughs, the IWSTI forums have thousands of user-supported write-ups and troubleshooting threads.

If you are new to cam swaps, consider purchasing a factory service manual for your specific WRX year. It provides the exact torque specs, timing mark locations, and component diagrams that aftermarket guides often miss.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading a Subaru WRX with a Brian Crower Stage 2 cam for roughly $750 is one of the smartest power-per-dollar investments you can make. The installation requires care and mechanical aptitude, but the rewards—sharper throttle response, a stronger midrange, and a more aggressive exhaust note—are well worth the effort. Whether you choose the DIY path or hire a professional, this camshaft upgrade will transform your WRX into a more exciting and capable machine.

Remember: always pair your new cam with a proper tune, and follow the break-in procedures to ensure long-term reliability. With the right preparation and patience, your WRX will deliver smiles and performance for many miles to come.