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The Subaru WRX has long been celebrated for its performance and tuning potential. One of the most effective ways to enhance the power and turbo response of a WRX is through E85 conversion, intercooler upgrades, and downpipe modifications. This article will explore how these upgrades can significantly improve the performance of your WRX.
Understanding E85 Fuel
E85 is a high-octane fuel blend consisting of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. It offers several advantages for performance vehicles, particularly those equipped with turbocharged engines like the WRX. The benefits of using E85 include:
- Higher octane rating: E85 typically has an octane rating of around 105, which helps prevent knock and allows for more aggressive tuning.
- Improved cooling: Ethanol has a higher latent heat of vaporization, which helps cool the intake air charge, resulting in denser air and more power.
- Increased power potential: With proper tuning, E85 can lead to significant horsepower and torque gains.
Benefits of Intercooler Upgrades
Upgrading the intercooler is a crucial step when converting to E85 fuel. The intercooler plays a vital role in cooling the compressed air from the turbocharger before it enters the engine. A more efficient intercooler can lead to:
- Lower intake temperatures: A larger or more efficient intercooler can reduce the temperature of the air entering the engine, improving combustion efficiency.
- Reduced turbo lag: By maintaining optimal temperatures, a quality intercooler can help reduce turbo lag, allowing for quicker throttle response.
- Enhanced performance: With cooler air, the engine can produce more power, making the WRX feel more responsive and agile.
Choosing the Right Intercooler
When selecting an intercooler for your WRX, consider the following factors:
- Core size: Larger core sizes typically provide better cooling but may require modifications for fitment.
- Material: Look for intercoolers made from high-quality materials like aluminum for durability and efficiency.
- Design: Bar-and-plate designs often offer better airflow and cooling compared to tube-and-fin designs.
Downpipe Upgrades for Enhanced Exhaust Flow
In addition to intercooler upgrades, replacing the downpipe can significantly improve the performance of your WRX. The downpipe is responsible for directing exhaust gases away from the turbocharger, and an upgraded downpipe can offer several benefits:
- Improved exhaust flow: A high-flow downpipe reduces restrictions, allowing exhaust gases to exit more efficiently.
- Turbo spool time: With less back pressure, the turbocharger can spool up faster, resulting in quicker acceleration.
- Sound enhancement: Upgraded downpipes often produce a more aggressive exhaust note, enhancing the driving experience.
Choosing the Right Downpipe
When selecting a downpipe for your WRX, consider the following:
- Material: Stainless steel is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Catless vs. catted: Catless downpipes provide maximum flow but may not be street legal. Catted options are more compliant with emissions regulations.
- Fitment: Ensure the downpipe is designed specifically for your WRX model year to avoid installation issues.
Tuning for E85 and Performance Upgrades
After completing the intercooler and downpipe upgrades, tuning is essential to maximize the benefits of E85 fuel. Proper tuning will ensure that the engine runs efficiently and safely. Key aspects of tuning include:
- Fuel maps: Adjusting fuel maps to account for the different properties of E85 is crucial for optimal performance.
- Ignition timing: E85’s higher octane allows for more aggressive ignition timing, which can improve power output.
- Boost levels: Tuning can help safely increase boost levels, further enhancing performance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your WRX with E85 conversion, intercooler enhancements, and downpipe modifications can lead to significant improvements in power and turbo response. By carefully selecting quality components and ensuring proper tuning, you can unlock the full potential of your WRX, making it a more exhilarating driving experience.