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The Subaru WRX is known for its performance and tuning potential. Many enthusiasts seek to enhance their vehicles’ power outputs, especially when using E85 fuel. This article explores the necessary upgrades to fuel pumps, injectors, and the ECU to achieve over 450 horsepower with E85 in your WRX.
Understanding E85 Fuel
E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. This high ethanol content allows for greater power potential due to its higher octane rating and cooling properties. However, using E85 requires specific modifications to your WRX to ensure optimal performance.
Upgrading the Fuel System
Fuel Pumps
To support the increased fuel demand of E85, upgrading your fuel pump is essential. Stock fuel pumps may not provide adequate flow rates. Consider the following options:
- High-flow aftermarket fuel pumps
- Dual fuel pump setups for increased reliability
When selecting a fuel pump, ensure it is compatible with E85 and can handle the necessary flow rates for your horsepower goals.
Fuel Injectors
In addition to the fuel pump, upgrading your fuel injectors is crucial. Stock injectors typically cannot deliver enough fuel for high horsepower applications. Look for:
- Injectors with a higher flow rate (typically 1000cc or more)
- Injectors specifically designed for E85 compatibility
Proper injector sizing is vital to maintain the correct air-fuel ratio and ensure optimal engine performance.
ECU Tuning for E85
After upgrading the fuel system, the next step is tuning the ECU. This is critical for maximizing performance and ensuring the engine runs efficiently on E85. Consider the following:
- Custom tuning using a reputable tuner
- ECU reflashing to accommodate new fuel maps
- Monitoring air-fuel ratios to prevent lean conditions
Proper tuning will allow your WRX to take full advantage of the benefits of E85, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
Additional Considerations
When running E85, there are other factors to keep in mind to ensure the longevity and reliability of your engine:
- Replace fuel lines and seals with ethanol-compatible materials
- Regularly check fuel filters and maintain the fuel system
- Consider upgrading the intercooler for better cooling
By addressing these additional considerations, you can enhance the overall performance and reliability of your WRX when using E85.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Subaru WRX to handle E85 fuel can significantly boost its power output. By focusing on the fuel system upgrades—specifically the fuel pump and injectors—and ensuring a proper ECU tune, you can achieve over 450 horsepower. Always remember to consider the additional factors to maintain performance and reliability. Happy tuning!