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The Subaru WRX is a vehicle renowned for its performance and rally heritage. However, when pushing the limits of power, especially beyond 450 horsepower, upgrading the drivetrain becomes essential for reliability and performance. In this article, we will explore the necessary drivetrain upgrades for the VB WRX to ensure it can handle the extra power without compromising on performance.
Understanding the Drivetrain Components
The drivetrain of the Subaru WRX consists of several key components that work together to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. Understanding these components is crucial for making informed upgrades.
- Transmission
- Driveshaft
- Differentials
- Axles
- Clutch
Transmission Upgrades
The transmission is responsible for shifting gears and transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. For a WRX running over 450 hp, upgrading the transmission is a must to handle the increased torque.
- Performance Transmission Cooler: Helps maintain optimal operating temperatures during aggressive driving.
- Short Shifter: Reduces shift times and improves driver engagement.
- Aftermarket Transmission Mounts: Improve stability and reduce movement during high power applications.
Driveshaft Upgrades
The driveshaft is crucial for transmitting power from the transmission to the rear differential. An upgraded driveshaft can enhance strength and reduce weight, improving overall performance.
- Aluminum or Carbon Fiber Driveshaft: Lighter than the stock driveshaft, reducing rotational mass and improving acceleration.
- Heavy-Duty U-Joints: Provide better durability under higher torque loads.
Differential Upgrades
The differential is essential for distributing power to the wheels. Upgrading differentials can enhance traction and stability, especially in high-power applications.
- Upgraded Rear Differential: Consider a limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved traction during acceleration.
- Front Differential Upgrade: A stronger front differential can handle the increased power and torque.
Axle Upgrades
The axles are responsible for transmitting power from the differential to the wheels. Upgrading axles is critical when increasing horsepower to prevent failures.
- Heavy-Duty Axles: Designed to handle higher torque loads without breaking.
- CV Joint Upgrades: Stronger CV joints can improve reliability during aggressive driving.
Clutch Upgrades
The clutch is vital for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. An upgraded clutch can improve engagement and handle the increased power effectively.
- Performance Clutch Kit: Offers better grip and can handle higher horsepower levels.
- Lightweight Flywheel: Reduces rotational mass for quicker acceleration.
Conclusion
Upgrading the drivetrain of your VB WRX is essential for ensuring reliability at 450+ horsepower. By focusing on the transmission, driveshaft, differentials, axles, and clutch, you can create a robust setup that can handle the demands of high-performance driving. These upgrades not only enhance reliability but also improve the overall driving experience.