Day one started off as normal as it can, for a Subaru owner.

Take a look at the rest of Ivan’s car by hitting MORE.

Ivan was quick, however, to express himself through his car. These Enkei GTC-01 18×9.5 +38’s fit his personality spot on and were, of course, neon green.

Fortunately for us, Ivan loves a good set of wheels and it was soon time to part with his Enkei’s in favor of something a bit bolder. Enough of my blabbering, let’s hear what Ivan has to say about his ride.

Introduce yourself, reiterate name, age, where you’re from, and your interests.

 My name is Ivan, otherwise known as Jive turkey on all the forums I troll and post in. I’m a 21 year old senior at Rutgers in New Brunswick and am in the process of applying to law school, meaning that the car will soon be put on the back burner of my mind as I have a lot of work to do ahead of me.

I’m from Russia, Yaroslavl to be exact, and I can’t be prouder of that. I’ve heard every soviet joke there is, not funny. I currently reside in Jersey and before you ask, no it’s not actually as bad as they say. I love it here, minus the terrible roads. My interests are that of any other gear head/car guy I know. They revolve around eating, wrenching, shooting cars, etc. and just having a good time. It’s really hard to write about yourself and not sound awfully stuck up so I’ll just leave it with the fact that I love to laugh and you can go from there.

 Say what you love about Subaru and what made you want to get into the game. 

I can’t say that a Subaru was the first car I wanted. My good friends are all from various car scenes, mostly the Audi/VW scene so I honestly was in love with GTi’s and Mini’s for a while. I came close to having an MkV as a first car but ended up with an RX300 instead. I didn’t stumble across Subaru’s until maybe senior year of high school when my buddy got a WRB bugeye which I immediately fell in love with. It was stage 2 with a vf43 and a 38mm EWG. That thing was awesome. Driving it for the first time changed my opinions of Subaru’s forever, until then I thought they were only good at making Outbacks.

It was all downhill from there, and I had been saving since I can remember for this STi and I still am in shock on some mornings that at 21 I own (5 years of payments to go!) a car like this. Before I even bought the car I was stockpiling random things like gauges and etc. because i couldn’t pass up a good deal and I knew that it wouldn’t stay stock. The mod bug bit before I even bought the car. I’ve been trolling NASIOC for even longer than I’ve loved Subaru’s, always reading so that I knew how these cars worked.

Basically to sum up how I got into Subaru’s it’s simple, go drive a GTi or a civic Si but make sure you try to find a modded one. Then go drive an STi or a WRX and you will fall in love instantly. I can’t say I hate any specific cars though, like I said I came from a very varied group, as long as you’re not stuck up and have respect, I can appreciate any car. After all we are all enthusiasts, but to me there is something about that rumble, the AWD, and the community that will keep me in the Subie game for a long time.

how she currently sits.

As she sits now it is as close to my dream aesthetic setup as I can get it. The new wheels that have only been on a week are Work Emotion XT7′s in bronze, 18×9.5 +38 in stock 245′s. Before I even was into cars I remember seeing these wheels on a Silvia and I was in love instantly. They have always been on my mind but for me, between working and school, Work wheels weren’t on my list of wheels for a while. Lets start with how I got here.

First off, this car came with summer tires and I bought it in the dead of winter, thus it was a no brainer that the stock 18×8.5 Enkei’s became my winter set which I wrapped in Pirelli winter performance tires. I picked up the car December 11th, 2010 and before that winter was over I was desperately searching for a set of wheels for the summer, at the time nothing I liked I could afford, and everything else has been done so many times on these cars it made me sick, I didn’t want Grid’s or G Forces but couldn’t exactly afford something I really wanted. I came across the neon green Enkei GTC-01′s on a private sale thread and I had to have them. I’ve never seen them on a Subaru, and many of my friends said I was out of my mind, but I pulled the trigger and they were here in no time.

 Honestly I can’t say I’ve had issues fitting them. Before they even came in I rolled and pulled my fenders flush because I didn’t want to have any issues, and I’d have to do it sooner or later. These new GR chassis Subaru’s, especially the STI’s and 2011+WRX’s have such wide fenders it amazes how easy it was to fit these. They were 18×9.5 +38 and fit with ease. The blue on green was an instant favorite of mind. I miss those wheels so much as they snapped necks left and right, I never had a day when someone didn’t say something to me and whether it was nice or outright rude, it’s nice to hear either way.

Before I sold the wheels I had picked up BC/BR coils (8k/10k) and had one last shoot with the wheels that I did at a historic location. The car was sitting pretty but as they say, all good things must come to an end and these were sold. Luckily though I stumbled upon one of my dream wheels, the Work Emotion XT7′s before I even sold the Enkei’s. I jumped on those wheels. Thanks to Steve for being patient and selling them to me! I got them in three weeks after I sold my Enkeis and in the time being I was slumming it on my friends Work Emotion XD9′s. All joking aside the XD9′s looked amazing on the car but just weren’t my style.

The Work Emotion XT7′s came in, and I couldn’t get to the local shop fast enough to mount them up. BIG thanks to Bruno and Walter over at Imprezzive automotive in Cartaret, NJ for helping me out with my wheels and rubber, would not have done it without you guys. So this little story brings me back to the beginning, the car’s height, rake, and wheels are where I want them. The rest is a work in progress.

future plans for the car itself

Honestly, I couldn’t even tell you. I don’t have a modding style, as in show or go, I like it all. I like to shoot and look at it, but I love to be able to actually drive it too. My first time at the track over at lighting in NJMP was an eye opening experience, where I learned you don’t need a fast car to be a fast driver so I’m not obsessed with power, but rather I’m obsessed with a good balance and the endless knowledge. It’s not about power, or numbers, or bling or “mad tight” JDM parts for me, it’s about the knowledge and understanding. The sheer amount of knowledge of the people who race cars I find mind blowing. Driving is easy; driving fast is an art that I will eventually try to be decent at.

Some things I have planned soon are minor. I’d like to finish up the suspension with sways, end links and so some bracing. Power wise I’m thinking of doing GroupS headers with a tail 38mm EWG/Grimspeed UpPipe, maybe injectors. Honestly some days I feel like the car is slow, other days it surprises me. One thing that is definite is new tires, the stock tires are not only loud as all hell, but are also not meaty enough. My plan is to wrap the 18×9.5 +38mm Work Emotion XT7′s in a 275/35/18, a proper fitment.

As far as my aspirations for the car I really just want to do my own thing and not follow in someone’s footsteps. It’s really hard to stray from the crown in a group as big as the NASIOC and IWSTI forums, but it’s something I am trying to do it. I refuse to be another WRB on gold STI. Yes it looks good but it’s not my thing, which is why the Work Emotion XT7′s will be powder coated in the winter along with other various goodies that will go on the car. What color? You’ll have to wait and see (ED: Not too long, just keep reading).

In the end, this car is a dream come true and I can’t thank all my friends (you know who you are) enough for helping me wrench on the car late into nights rain or shine. I can’t leave the parents out of this since they let me stash parts in their basement. Also big thanks to AZP installs for putting up with my ‘genius’ ideas and Imprezzive for helping me with the wheels/tires. All of you guys have been a big help and inspiration I can’t soak up the knowledge fast enough from a lot of you guys!

I can’t say I will ever be “done” with the car as there is always something to be done or changed but there will be a time when I’m content. Next year I plan on tracking it a lot more to get some driving under my belt, after all why do all of this for it to only see the street? I don’t believe in messing around on the street, yes we all do some pulls here and there, but I refuse to push it on public roads.

I hope you enjoy the car and the pictures as much as I do since they were all taken by me. The gear is pretty basic, I’m using a Nikon D5000 with a Tamron 18-270 3.5 and a Nikon 35mm 1.8. Between detailing the car and shooting it it’s almost a full time job keeping her clean. Luckily my girlfriend is beginning to understand my ways and I can’t thank her enough for understanding when sometimes the car takes rank above her or when I’m running late to important dates and things because of issues with the car. I think she know who the real woman in my life is, no guys it’s not the STI, or is it?

I can go on for hours talking about the car and mods that went into it or ideas but I’ll try to keep it short. Do what you like and keep yourself happy, and even though it’s just a car, it means a lot to all of us gear heads who put in the time and effort to be appreciated. Thanks for everyone who actually takes the time to read this. Hopefully I’ll meet you guys at meets or see you around, feel free to say hello, I’m as easy going as they get, just don’t touch the car!

I am excited to see all the things Ivan is going to bring to the table with his STI and know that the likely hood of a “final product” with this car is very slim, because as we all know, no car is ever really “complete”. This isn’t the last time we will hear from him either, since there’s no doubt in my mind that many track days lay in the future and I’ll be right behind him. (ED: After the main interview with Ivan has has added the Grimspeed goodies he was looking to add along with the EWG. He’s also now tuned by EFI Logics)

The List:

EXTERIOR:
Hella supertones
Debadged
RA mudflaps (black with red)
3k hid fog lights
20% tint all around
Vinyl gloss black roof
JDM rear foglight
Thule roof rack with Thule 38′ fairing
HPT motorsports front lip
R205 badges
Yellow over layer fog lights

INTERIOR
Hard wired radar
Setting saver
Armrest extender
WCLathewerks 3′ brushed aluminum shift extender
3M Di-noc interior trim wrapped
Recaro headrest pillows
Killer B Automotive sphere shift knob
Defi advanced CR 60mm boost gauge
AEM UEGO 52mm wideband
gauges mounted in custom cut above rearview mirror pop from Fast WRX

POWER/DRIVETRAIN
TWM SS
Kartboy Front & Rear Bushings
COBB SF Intake + Airbox
Magnaflow 3” CBE
Invidia Ceramic Coated Catless Downpipe
NGK one step colder spark plugs
Walbro 255 fuelpump
Grimmspeed ebcs
Grimmspeed IWG block off bracket
Grimmspeed uppipe/dumptube
Tial 38mm EWG
GFB stealth fx adjustable recirc/hybrid BOV
Gold heat tape TMIC
Engine enamel on y-pipe/STi logo on tmic

SUSPENSION
BC BR Coilovers – 8K/10K
GTspec front strut bar
GTspec H-brace
Perrin 25mm front sway
Perrin 22mm rear sway
Kartboy front and rear endlinks

WHEELS/TIRES
Current
Work Emotion XT7 18×9.5 +38 in custom florescent highlighter yellow Wrapped in Sumitomo HTR Z III 275/35/18

Past
Enkei GTC-01 18×9.5 +38 in Neon Green
Work Emotion XD9 18×9 +43 in Gold
Work Emotion XT7 18×9.5 +38 in Bronze

Winter
Stockers W/225/40/18 Pirelli SottoZero Snow Tires

The Shots:
With the Enkei’s

Interior

With the XT7’s at “The Pagoda Run”

Current XD7s New Color

- The Madman.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ivan_tukhtin/

In 2011, Revolutionary Sports Team was officially stood up and a permanent codriver, George Loef, was signed to the team. George is a senior Firecontrolman for the U.S. Navy, and the two have proven to be a perfect match for rallying since. The 2011 season brought several successes including two 2^nd overall finishes that have brought them to 4^th overall in the Atlantic Rally Cup in the AWD division which is sanctioned by NASA Rallysport.

Due to scheduling issues the team missed the first two races of the season and their current position is testimony to the potential this team has. Rally of the Tall Pines is the final race for the team for 2011. The winter conditions will pose a formidable challenge but Sam and George are up to the task.

Their 2004 Subaru STi is prepared for Open class competition and includes the following modifications:

Engine:
Stock EJ257 Short Block
P&P Heads
TGV Deletes
VF39 w/ 34mm restrictor
Grimmspeed Phenolic Spacer
Short Ram Intake
Cobb Accessport w/ Topspeed Tune
Cobb lightweight crank pulley
Cobb Catted Down and Intermediate Pipe
Custom Straight Axelback
Group N Engine Mounts
Mishimoto Radiator and Hoses
Motul 300V 15w50 Racing Oil
Killer B Motorsports oil Pickup and Baffle

Transmission and Driveline:
Whiteline Shifter bushings
Group N Pitch Stop Mount
Exedy Stage 1 HD Clutch
Q-Rack Quick Steering Rack
Whiteline Steering Rack Bushings

Suspension and Brakes:
RS&SP 1-way adjustable gravel coilovers
Group N top hats
4 pot front brakes w/ Ferodo 2500 pads
Modified Brembo rear w/Ferodo 2500 pads
Hydraulic E-brake w/ Wilwood Master Cylinder
ABS Delete
Internal stainless brake lines
Braided stainless brake lines external

Wheels and tires:
Braid Safari gravel wheels
Lassa Rally 3 or 4′s gravel tires
BFGoodrich G Sport gravel tires
Yokohama A034 snow tires
ARP Wheel Studs

Structure:
Autopower/Jackson Rally Roll Cage integrating all suspension points
Custom aluminum skid plate w/ mount
HDPE Custom cut underbody panels
Primitive rear differential guard
HDPE Replacement front fender liners

Lighting:
4x Soltek Forerunner HID driving lights on bumper beam replacement mount

Interior:
Aerosim Research Carbon Fiber door cards
Racetech RT1000 Race seats w/ aluminum rails
G-Force 6 pt harnesses
Terratrip Rally Computer
Terraphone Intercom

Future plans for the car include standalone engine management with Antilag, upgraded differentials and differential controller and an expanded race program including Rally Mexico as early as 2013. Revolutionary Sports Team is currently looking for sponsorships and can be contacted at revolutionarysports@gmail.com.

Revolutionary Sports would like to thank Valkyrie Motorsports for their rally service support. Owner and master fabricator Dylan Costello has served as the team’s Crew Chief for the majority of their rallies since 2010.

To find out more information about the team please visit their Facbook page at Revolutionary Sports Facebook Page where you can get the latest news and race day coverage of the team’s rally efforts.

To watch more videos of the team please visit their YouTube Channel at Revolutionary Sports YouTube Channel where you can watch the latest videos of the team’s rally efforts.

Revolutionary Sports Team is going to be fun to watch over the next year, I’ll try and keep everyone updated as they progress over next season. It’s awesome to see an STi getting out in the dirt. Lets see if we can help Revolutionary Sports’ Facebook Page and YouTube Channel pick up some new followers.

Keep it up guys,
T3h_Clap

Over the years Billy’s had some very notable wheel and tire setups, his current set is by far my favorite. 18×9 +45mm Enkei PF01s in Blood Red powder coat, paired up with a set of uber sticky 255/35/18 Toyo R1Rs and some KW V3 coilovers. This setup is perfect for what Billy wanted, aggressive yet not crazy, loads of grip but no poke.

Billy has been in this game for awhile. 05 WRB GD, 08 DGM GRB, 05 OBP GD, 07 OBP GD this may be jibberish to some, but to others this shows the timeline of Billy’s Subaru obsession. He built an amazing WRB 2005 STi a few years back and I know for a fact he inspired a lot of other people with the Cusco Front Lip, GramLight 57Fs and multiple different wings.

Currently Billy has a pair of OBP STi’s (yes I said pair!!) one 2005 and one 2007, one nearly done and one just getting started. I’m going to let Billy take the reigns and explain abit about himself and his car’s past, present and future. Take it away Billy.

Ok, so I’m Billy Muller, I’m 24 and I’m the used car manager for my father’s Chevrolet Dealer in Stewartsville, NJ. I came into the Subaru scene in 2004 when I got a java black pearl 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX. I found out about the WRX and/or STI back playing Gran Turismo 2, along with the Evo. I told myself, one day I want to drive one of those cars, because they were so bad ass in this video game.  Well, they came here and it’s basically all downhill from there (the mod bug stuck forever). After making the wrx stage 2, it was time for an upgrade. I traded the 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX in for my 1^st STi (I’ve had 4 STi’s in total), which was a WRB 2005. I did everything with that car, and had a well followed members journal on iwsti.com.

For a reason I don’t know, I felt the need for a change and put the entire car back to stock and traded it in for a new 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi GR hatch. It was a really nice car, but I fell in love with the original car brought to the US. The GD just has the feel, and the look.

I went stage 2, added some suspension stuff and drove about 5000 miles. I soon put the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi up for sale.

That is when I spotted a 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi for sale on ebay and the forum. I had to have it. I didn’t care how far it was, it was a bad ass car. Long story short, when I got it, the motor was no good. Depressed after waiting for so long, I took the car to my friends at EFI Logics, since I know Chris already from xx tuning.

He told me they had to tear it down, it was spewing oil out everywhere, was smoking bad, and was very unhealthy. With everyone following my newly made members journal, the results were posted by pete at EFI. All four forged JE pistons were cracked, my bearings had heavy scoring, the cams had heavy scoring, the cylinder walls had scoring, it was a train wreck of a motor. With no where to go, they said what do you want to do? I told them, build it, use the good parts (the turbo and supporting components), and make me something better than this car was perceived. So the build began, I let EFI chose which parts to go with each other, after telling them what I expected from the car. 

A little while later, Tina (Rob @ EFI names all his motors), was done and ready to be stuffed back in. I think my car was one of the first highly modded motors to come out of EFI, since they opened in 08, and everybody was waiting to see the results. After the break in, I had issues with my meth kit and my fuel pump was cutting out. I was disheartened following what EFI recommended, I made an appointment for installing an Aquamist HFS6 and for Jack (the fabricator) to add a Full Blown dual Walbro setup. I’m running 950cc injectors, and the fuel pump couldn’t keep up with them, hence the reason to add a secondary pump. Finally, the day came for dyno tuning with the new setup.

Final dyno numbers for my STi were 510whp/473wtq, one of the highest to come out of EFI. The dual walbros dropped my IDCs by 30% with tons of room left on the table. The only thing holding it back now is the actual turbo itself.

Now the car was in my hands, it was running great and has been ever since. I have changed the car’s look numerous times, making it my own creation. Many people probably don’t realize it was the same car featured in Modified Mag one year. My original plans for this car was to use it on the track, but for what it has been through, my mind has changed.

I recently acquired a 2007 sti as my daily driver with only 9000 miles…..STOCK! My mind changed and I knew this was the car to use. While my 05 would probably be a beast on the track, you don’t see many 500whp sti’s going around. Most at 350-400whp,with great response. The 07 is going to be that car. The 07 is going to be a fresh start for me, which I am so excited for. The 07 is going to be the track b***h, but with a full interior, etc. it’s for those fun days, but hey you never know how it’ll turn out. I love following Amy (StripesRX) and her racing and would love to follow her around to events and race in honor of EFI.

The 05 is going to be the garage queen, with the 54,000 miles she only has on her, tearing up the streets when she comes out. I still have some chargespeed carbon fiber pieces coming for it too. I think I’m going to add a bigger turbo and go for more power in the future too. You can’t stop at 500whp. I want more than that lol.  Right now, I’m busy trying to sell cars in our economy and maybe soon, open a performance shop within the dealer.

You can find my cars under VSGTS14 on iwsti.com and any time EFI Logics has an event, I’ll be there. My 05 was featured in EFI Logics booth at Wicked Big Meet and The Mega Meet recently both cars will always see EFI Logics for all work performed, everybody should turn to them if you need a tune, a fix, or a parts inquiry, especially with JNA performance right next to them.  

So a big thank you goes out to them for all their hard work and patience. I’d like to thank iwsti.com for their help and insight about parts and what to do and to the members I know on there. A thank you to my girlfriend who doesn’t know one thing about subaru’s, but likes to be around the scene and people. Also, thanks for T3h_Clap for my hundreds of pm’s about wheel fitment for nearly every STi I have owned and figuring out what works and what doesn’t!

MODS:
Engine
EFI Logics Built EJ25 Block – 93 octane + meth injection

510whp/473wtq @ 27 psi

• COBB Accessport V2
• Aquamist HFS6
• Spec C Tank w/Meth
• EFI Logics Special Pistons
• EFI Logics Custom Fuel System w/-8 AN Fittings and Lines
• Cosworth S2 Grind Camshafts 278/274 – properly sized valve buckets for optimal clearance
• Supertech +0.5 Intake and Exhaust Valves – mild head port on exhaust side only
• Supertech Titanium Retainer Seats
• Supertech Valve Springs
• Supertech Spring Seats
• ARP Head Studs
• Invidia N1 Race w/Ti Tip Catback
• Ultimate Racing GT35R Turbo
• Ultimate Racing Downpipe
• Ultimate Racing 3 Bolt Uppipe
• Ultimate Racing Reverse Flow Ver1 FMIC
• Crawford Performance Ver.1 A/O Seperator
• Custom 83mm MAF Housing – KS Tech
• Full Blown Dual Walbro Pump Setup w/Custom Lines
• Blitz SBC ID3 Boost Controller
• TIAL 44mm EWG (Custom Dump Tube)
• TIAL BOV
• Thermo Turbo Blanket
• Aeromotive Fuel Rails
• Aeromotive Fuel Pressure Regulator with Liquid-Filled CHM Gauge
• GT Spec Gen 2 Unequal Length Header
• KOYO Aluminum Radiator
• Moroso Version 1 Oil Pan
• Grimmspeed Thermostat
• JDM TGV deletes
• Deatschwerks 950cc Side Feed Injectors
• NGK One Step Colder Plugs
• AR Fab Harmonic Balancer
• ARC Radiator Cap
• Braille Lightweight Battery w/EFI Logics Bracket
• Perrin Radiator Hoses
• Coolant Reservoir Delete
• Gates Timing Belt
• Kartboy Exhaust Hangers
• KillerB Windshield Washer Tank
• Carbign Craft Carbon Fiber Alternator Cover
• Carbign Craft Carbon Fiber Radiator Shroud
• Dress Up Bolts Polished Engine Bay Bolts
• Project MU Brake & Clutch Caps

Exterior

• Voltex Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser
• Syms Rear Spoiler
• Syms Side Skirts
• S2000 Retrofit Headlights w/Angel Eyes (Lightwerkz)
• 10% Window Tint
• Debadged
• Blue Bat’s Tinted Tails + 3rd Brake Light
• Black “I” Emblem
• Black STi Billet Aluminum Front Bumper Trim
• Carbon Fiber Front Lip
• NRG Polished Hood Dampers
• Varis Carbon Fiber Exhaust Shield

Interior

• Bride Gias Low Max Seats with Gradiation
• Blacked Out Interior w/Pass Through
• PROVA D-Shaped Steering Wheel
• S204 Style Flat Black Dash Trim
• Aspec Titanium Shift Knob
• AEM AFR Gauge
• Autometer Carbon Fiber Gauge Pods
• DEFI BF Amber Boost
• DEFI BF Amber Oil Pressure
• DEFI BF Amber EGT
• DEFI Control Unit II
• DEFI Triple Meter Hood
• Fully Converted Interior Lights to Red courtesy of Interior Flaire
• Subtle Solutions Ashtray Bezel (Black)
• Auto-Dimming Mirror/Compass
• Polished STi Shifter Surround
• JDM Carbon Shift Pattern Decal
• Autospeed Dead Pedal
• TurboXS Knock Light
• Passport 8500 X50
• Forester DIN Pocket
• Alpine iDA-X305 Digital Media Receiver
• Alpine Type-R Speakers

 Drivetrain

• Enkei PF01 18×9 +45 Powdercoated Candy Apple Red (Courtesy of EFI Logics & T3h_Clap)
• Toyo R1R 255/35/18
• Project Kics R40 Neochrome Lugs
• Kartboy Short Shifter W/All Bushings
• ACPT Carbon Fiber Driveshaft
• Carbonetics Twin Disc Clutch w/Flywheel
• Steel Braided Clutch Line & ATE Super Blue
• Cusco Engine & Tranny Mounts
• Solid Aluminum Pitch Stop Mount
• TiC Outrigger & Tranny Cross Member Bushings

Suspension & Stiffening

• KW Variant 3 Coilovers
• RCE Camber Plates
• The Car Labs X-Brace
• COBB Front & Rear Sways
• Perrin Rear Endlinks
• Whiteline Sport ALK Kit
• Whiteline Subframe Locking Bolts
• Whiteline Adjustable Front Endlinks
• Whiteline Adjustable Lateral Links
• Offensive Power Front Fender Braces
• JDM Titanium Front Strut Bar
• Cusco Version 2 Subframe Brace

Brakes

• Ferodo DS2500 Pads
• Goodridge SS Lines
• ATE Super Blue Fluid

There is no doubt that Billy’s Obsidian Black Pearl 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi on Blood Red Enkei PF01s is well put togther. His engine setup, tune, exterior, interior, suspension, and wheels are all top notch. The guys at EFI did a great job on Billy’s car, makes me want to send the t3hClap.com STi up there for a new motor.

I’ll keep everyone posted with the progress of both of Billy’s STi’s and hopefully that will include some Autox, Track Day, and Drag strip photos next.

Billy, which wheels we thinking about for the 07?

Karlton placed 6th overall in SM after both days!! I can’t wait to see how Karlton does next year with some more tire and some more fine tuning. Maybe it’ll be time for t3hclap.com to take a road trip.

On to the pics.

We’re working hard on getting things back up to speed and updated over the next couple weeks/months. With the STi back and running we’ll be back autoxing in less then 11 days! We’ve got a few articles we’re working on, so stay tuned.

If you’d like to see your car featured here on the blog don’t hesitate to shoot us an email.

-T3h_clap

Suspension:
Ground Control Coilovers with 750/650 lb springs
Koni 8611s
Modified Six Gun BJE kit
Cobb Sway
Whiteline Lateral Links
Custom boxed in trailing arms with TiC bushings

Wheels/Tires:
Enkei RPF1 18×10.5 +15mm
ARP Wheel Studs
285/30/18 Toyo R888s

Engine:
Turbo is a GT35R with Tial .82 hotside
Custom header, up pipe and down pipe made by BM Engineering
Manley 2.6 stroker

Exterior:
Zero/Sports front bumper with quick release
Kognition rear spoiler
Custom front splitter
Karlton fender flares

Adam didn’t slack on any of the setup or prep for his car. He’s always been ahead of the curve and this time he out did himself with the new exterior and his personally built custom turbo kit. Good luck this weekend Adam!! Enough with the chat. Time for the awesome pics from Jermy Howat, check out his Flickr page

The sweet spot is 18×10.5 +15mm with a 295/30/18, coilovers and some camber. Go Ginormous or GTFO.

This first post will be all 1 piece wheels that clear the STi Brembos, the 2/3 piece article will come later once we know exactly how aggressive we can go with these monster flares Karlton has created.

Advan
RZ-DF 18×10.5 +15mm

Advan RZ-DF

RG-D 18×10.5 +15mm

Advan RG-D

TCII 18×10.5 +15mm (GTR Face)

Advan TCII

Enkei

PF01 18×10.5 +15mm

Enkei PF01

RPF1 18×10.5 +15mm

Enkei RPF1

NT03+M 18×10.5 +30mm

Enkei NT03+M

GramLight

57g 18×10.5 +12mm (Face 3)

GramLight 57G

Ings+

TS06 18×10.5 +15mm

TS06

Volk Racing

RE30 18×10.5 +18mm (L2)

Volk Racing RE30

CE28N 18×10.5 +18mm

Volk Racing CE28N

TE37 SL 18×10.5 +15mm

Volk Racing TE37 SL

TE37 18×10.5 +15mm

Volk Racing TE37

VR.

G2 18×10.5 +27mm (F3)

VR. GR2

WedsSport

TC105N 18×10.5 +12mm (RR)

WedsSport TC105N

I had these flares produced as I had a need for fitting wider tires for autocross. I thought about doing a widebody, but the cost of install kind of scared me away, as often times the cost of the install and paintwork is more than the cost of the widebody kit LOL. So I went for the next best thing, I had some fender  flares made for my car. Relatively simple to install, and a whole lot cheaper than the widebody route. So I basically can have a widebody to fit my tire needs without the crazy cost So how do you install these you ask? Well let’s start with the front since it’s the easiest to do.

First thing I did was I taped the flares up to the car (I was working alone, a second set of hands could be very helpful!). This gave me a rough idea of fit etc.  Now this is where I deviated from what most people would probably do. Instead of cutting/clearancing my fenders first, I decided to install the flares first, using nutserts  and stainless steel button head bolts.  I did this because, first of all, I couldn’t wait when I first got them I had to install them right away LOL and also because then I knew exactly where the flares would be and exactly how much the flare covered, so I knew where and how much I could cut.

Front Flare Taped on

So now the flare is taped on the fender, so the next step is to drill!! I started with a pretty small drill bit to make a pilot hole first. I also started with the upper hole closest to the door, then the front hole by the bumper, then finally the lower hole near the door.  If you have 2 people, then you won’t have to do this next step, but I was working solo. What I did was I used small sheetmetal screws and screwed the flare into place. Then I would unscrew one, drill to the appropriate size I needed for the nutserts I used (I used a 3/8″ drill bit), and move on to the next one. After you have your holes drilled, take your nutserts and nutsert tool and go ahead and install them, and try to install them as flush with the metal as possible.  Once the nutserts are installed, go ahead and install the flare with the appropriate bolts.  Once this step is done, I was ready to cut my stock fender for clearance.

Attaching The Flares

Installing the Nutserts

Nutsert Installed

My next step was to use blue painters tape and mask along the top of the flare. This was so I knew NOT to cut there  as it wouldn’t be covered hahaha. Now that you have the nutserts in place, that also gives you an idea of where you can cut.  So go ahead and take the flare off, and prepare yourself for cutting. I used an angle grinder with a cut off wheel, and basically cut about an inch and a half below my tape line. I cut the front bumper a bit where I thought I could have a clearance issue (the top area of the bumper) and I cut all the way along the back, but I left the rear tab where the fender liner attaches. This is so I could continue to run the back half of my fender liner. I then switched to a grinding stone on my angle grinder and smoothed out my cut a bit. Then I just painted it with some rustoleum I had on the shelf. Install the flare and that’s it!

Flares Screwed On

Cutting the Front Fender

The front bumper piece is the same concept. Tape it up there, drill the holes, and bolt them on The only difference is for the plastic pieces (i.e. the bumpers) , it’s best to just use a washer and nut on the backside of the bolts, since nutserts are not technically supposed to go into soft materials such as plastic.

Now for the rears, these are a bit more tricky but definitely doable. Basically do the same thing as the fronts. I taped them up, drilled pilot holes, screwed them in, then drilled larger holes . Took them off, installed the nutserts, bolted them back up (again using just a bolt/washer/nut for the rear bumper attachmen),  taped along the top edge for reference, then took the flare back off.

Pulled Rear Fenders Ready To be CUT!

This is where it gets a bit more difficult. What I did was I cut a radius on the outer layer of metal with my angle grinder and cut off wheel, leaving just the inner layer there in place. The problem I had was that I already cut my inner metal the first time I pulled my fenders for wider wheels/tires, so I had less inner metal to work with.  What I then did was I made little vertical slits in the inner layer so that I could fold it up to contact the outer layer. This is so I could bond the inner and outer layers back together for strength, but also to save the tires in case they somehow made contact with the cut fender (highly unlikely as I cut up quite far hahaha). With the inner layer folded up, there’s no sharp edge to contact the tire.

Cut Rear Fender

Now originally I was going to weld the 2 layers back together, but I got scared I was going to warp the metal or something with too much heat. So I used some automotive panel adhesive (like what corvettes are glued together with) with the special gun with 2 plungers.  Honestly this should work just fine, but if it happens to separate, I will grind all the glue away then weld. I also put a coat of this adhesive everywhere there was a gap to seal it all from moisture.

Fender Lip Cut Off

Rear Fender Mod

After this is done, I didnt even paint the metal as there is no exposed bare metal left. After this is done, it’s time to install the flare back on. For the forward most piece of the large rear flare, it is held on with 1 screw that goes into the metal where there is usually a rubber piece. Not sure what purpose that rubber piece holds but I removed it and screwed the flare into the flap. I had to use some washers though in between the metal flap and the flare as the company made the flares over the rubber piece, and now since my rubber piece is no longer there, there’s a bit of a gap. After you have the main fender flare piece installed, open the door and make sure it clears the flare. Then, the final step is to use some double sided tape and tape on the door piece, keeping an equal gap between it and the flare. Once that’s installed, all done!! Definitely a whole lot easier than doing a widebody kit, and now I can fit my 18×10.5 +25  wheels with 285/30/18 tires EASILY. Tons of room for more wheel and tire

Flares Attached

Karlton Flares

Close up Front Flare

Close Up Rear Fender Flare

T3h_Clap commentary: 18×10.5 +25mm and 285s and they look TINY! These flares are going to be a must have for any SM or STM STi. I think these would be great on a lot of time attack STi’s too. The great thing about these flares is were designed for the STI from the start. I can’t wait to get my hands on a set that fit the 05 Front bumper for my car.

First off I want to thank Karlton for all the hard work he’s put in to get these made. He’s got the molds and is starting to make these bad boys for the 06 STi’s. If anyone is interested in a set comment/email me and I’ll get you in contact with him.

Dimitri shaved the engine bay to accent the heart of this Bugeye Impreza WRX, the engine. With a plethora of high end, top of the line parts and AN Fittings D Money has nearly completed this phase of his cars transformation.

I’ve been talking with D Money about wheel fitment for years, from the start I knew he wasn’t going for nationals or Red Line Time Attack podium finishes. D wanted his wheels to fit beyond proper yet still have rubber. He took the 18×9.5 +30mm Work Emotion CR Kai’s and added some 10mm spacers to help fill out his now pulled fenders front and rear. The 255/35/18 Dunlop Z1 Star Specs keep the car stuck to the ground.

Speaking of “to the ground”, D Money is low. I can’t suggest this setup to just anyone. The work put into getting a Subaru this low is extensive. It’s obvious here that D Money prefers the low for his photoshoots and shows. Hopefully I can convince him to raise the car up and run a smaller spacer if/when he goes out to a track day.

LOL LOL, perfect vanity plate for this car. It may not be my favorite setup but he has done a damn good job at setting the car up to do exactly what he wanted it to do.  Turn Heads.

I’ve answered more PM’s from DMoney then any other individual and I was happy to do it. I’m happy to be able to say I helped with this build. Our PM’s ranged on topics from ARP wheel studs, spacers to 6 Pot Project Mu brake clearance. After awhile we got his wheel and tire setup figured out. Looking at the finished product shows that Dimitri spent lots of time on his fender and alignment settings, most people wouldn’t be able to tell (from these photos) that he’s running a +20mm offset. That’s the way it should be.

All the guys running low offsets and skinny tires need to take note here. 18×9.5 +20mm with a 255/35/18 and still under the stock fenders.

My autoxing and track day side of me wants the ride height a bit higher while the other side of me is simply smiling at a well put together Bugeye. Keep it up Dimitri

If you’ve got a few minutes read the mod list. hahaha, fyi it’s not short.

Mods list:

Exterior:
JUN Auto Bumper (Authentic)
C-West side skirts
HKS Kansai Service rear diffuser
ARC Magic splitters
Ganador mirrors
Varis carbon fiber B-pillars
Top Secret titanium tow hook
Chargespeed carbon fiber brake ducts
04-05 rear tail lights
04 STI rear bumper
Velocity Carbon V1 trunk lid
Kakumei carbon fiber window spoiler
McCulloch 6000k H1 HIDs
JDM STI headlights
JDM STI rear aprons
JDM STI grill w/STI emblem
JDM Subaru pink star badge
JDM STI hood scoop
JDM Subaru rain guards
Carbing aluminum under panel
30% tinted windows by Shades of Gray
STI license plate bracket
Hella Supertone horns
VKInnovations carbon fiber wiper cowl
Summit Racing dzus fasteners
Rolled & pulled front/rear fenders
Takata low down ramps (show use)

Paint/body:
BAS-F Ultrasonic Blue Mica w/dark aluminum & purple flake
Shaved & wire tucked engine bay
Shaved: factory antenna, side markers & window washers
Painted: Trunk, radiator brackets, timing belt covers, brake booster, sub frame brace

Coating/finishing:
All powder coating done by Martin at Liquid Powder Coats
All chroming done by Brian at RB chroming
All ceramic coating done in Jet-Hot 2000
All carbon fiber done by Vince at VKInnovations

Interior:
BRIDE Stradia Maziora edition w/Andromeda backs
BRIDE brackets/sliders
BRIDE optional gradiation center pads
BRIDE wrapped door cards in gradiation
BRIDE wrapped back seat in gradiation
Black suede headliner & visors
Black suede rear deck lid
VKInnovations c/f interior trim pieces
Shaved/painted b & c pillars
Takata harnesses (x2)
Pioneer AVIC-D3 in dash dvd/mp3/cd/nav/ipod
Alpine Type-S 6 ½ front speakers
Alpine Type-S 5 ¼ rear speakers
Alpine Type-S tweeters
Grimmspeed internal antenna
Key!s Racing semi-cone 325mm steering wheel
Works Bell Rapfix II quick release
Works Bell short boss hub
Works Bell Rapfix flipper
STI floor mats
STI shifter trim
STI limited black carpet
STI I/C spray switch
STI key blank
STI Cluster
STI e-brake handle
STI C/F 5mt shift pattern
STI chrome door handles
STI aluminum door sills
STI full pedal set
JMF custom sheet metal rear fire wall
Garage spec shifter extender
ARC polished titanium shift knob
Autospeed dead pedal
Taylor polished battery box
Broadway rear view mirror
Prodriven Auto full interior red LED conversion
YourLEDshop full interior white LED kit
Lotek dual gauge pod
Defi triple gauge hood pod
Defi control unit
Defi BF Amber 60mm guages
-Boost
-Oil Temp.
-Exhaust Temp.
-Oil Pressure
-Water Temp.

Wheels/brakes/suspension:
Work Emotion CR Kai 18×9.5 +30 WMB finish
Project Kics R40 Neo chrome lug nuts
Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec 255/35/18
Project µ 355mm big brake kit w/ SCR-PRO rotors
Project µ Teflon/steel braided brake lines
Project µ B-force pads front & rear
Brembo rear calipers (custom powdercoated Pmµ teal)
Rear Brembo adapter kit w/DBA 4000 series rotors
Stoptech SS braided rear brake lines
Custom ABS delete with Earl’s -3AN fittings
Motul RBF-600 brake fluid
Stance AL+ PRO coilovers (8k/6k)
Race alignment (-3F -2.5R)
ARP extended studs F/R
Megan Racing C-pillar bar
Whiteline steering rack bushings
Whiteline roll center kit
Carbing front strut bar w/msb
Carbing 8pt subframe brace
Cusco rear strut bar
Cusco rear V-brace
Cusco lateral links
Cusco trailing arms
Cusco 22mm front sway bar
Cusco 22mm rear sway bar
Hotchkis front/rear endlinks
Perrin rear sway bar mounts

Engine/head specs:
RAW Performance (Axis) Signature Series block:
• 2.5L STI semi-closed deck case (8.5:1)
• Darton Ductile iron sleeve liners
• Modified forged EJ257 crankshaft
• ACL race main & rod bearings
• Custom Pauter machined forged rods
• Custom & coated CP Forged pistions (100mm)
• High performance pistion rings
• Fully balanced & blue printed
• ARP head studs
• Cometic head gaskets
• Raw Performance shimmed STI oil pump
• New STI water pump
• STI Group-N Kevlar timing belt
• Factory Subaru engine gasket kit

RAW Performance (Axis) Signature Series heads:
• Custom Kelford 280/280 camshafts (11.3mm lift)
• Custom hand porting work
• 5-Angle intake valve job
• 3-Angle & radiused exhaust valve job
• Supertech oversized intake valves (+1mm)
• Supertech oversized Inconel exhaust valves (+1mm)
• Valves lapped into head
• Supertech dual valve springs
• Titanium retainers- new spring seats
• Subaru valve stem seals
• Shimless Subaru buckets
• Flow bench tested

Engine/turbo/dress up:
Ultimate Racing turbo kit (ceramic coated in Jet-Hot 2000)
HTA86 1.06 A/R
2.5” ID up-pipe
Gruppe-S UEL header (ceramic coated in Jet-Hot 2000)
Hydra EMS v2.6 w/wideband
Hydra flat foot shift/launch control cable
JMF custom intercooler kit w/Garrett 24x12x4 core
JMF custom coolant overflow tank
JMF custom coolant tank
JMF custom power steering tank
JMF custom FPR/distribution block bracket
JMF custom dual pulley setup
JMF custom cnc’d alternator bracket
JMF oil cooler core bracket
TiAL “Q” 50mm bov
TiAL 44mm external waste gate
ATP -4AN oil feed line w/.035 restrictor
JDM TGV deletes
Cusco motor/transmission mounts
Koyo Radiator
ATI super damper
Unorthodox 2-pc polished pulley set
Crucial Racing thermostat
Gates Racing accessory belt
Hayden slimline fans
JIC Spartan DE type-1 full titanium exhaust (80mm)
P & L braided power steering line
P & L -8AN head breather adapters
Custom -8AN crank vent system
Peterson Air/Oil separator
Port matched intake manifold and tgvs
Ported throttle body (64.5mm)
Setrab oil cooler core (-10AN)
Mocal sandwich plate w/built in thermostat
JDM STI pink oil filter
Apex’i AVCR electronic boost controller
Apex’i turbo timer w/HKS harness
Vibrant vacuum lines
Agency power pitch stop
Samco radiator hoses
ARC radiator caps (x2)
ARC titanium radiator shroud
ARC oil fill cap
Gallery Original Dress up colored bolts (56pcs.)
Project µ brake & clutch reservoir caps
Project Kics magnetic oil drain plug
NRG polished hood dampers
Full wire tuck by Wkderf

Fuel system:
Ultimate Racing 1260cc injectors
RAW Performance -6AN fuel rails
TurboXS surge tank setup
Bosch044 external fuel pumps (x2)
Walbro 255l/ph fuel pump
Aeromotive A1000 platinum series fuel pressure regulator
Aeromotive fuel pressure gauge
Aeromotive 10-micron fuel filter
Aeromotive aluminum fuel filter bracket
Earl’s distribution blocks (x2)
Earl’s swivel-seal fittings
Earl’s Auto-Flex HTE hose (-8AN feed, -6AN return)
Jay Racing –6AN check valves (x2)
Jay Racing Bosch pump -6AN inlet fittings

Drivetrain:
PPG 1-4 straight cut gear set (3.08 / 1.87 / 1.32 / 0.95 / std)
PPG 1-4 billet selector forks
PPG LSD front differential
PPG synchros
Powder coated Transmission case w/all new bolts
ACT XT 6-puck sprung clutch
ACT Streetlite flywheel (13.9lbs)
Custom -3AN clutch line
07’ 3.54 R180 (painted, chromed rear diff cover, earls ¾”npt plugs)
Redline lightweight shockproof gear oil
Motul gear 300
Kartboy 5mt short shfiter
Kartboy front shifter bushings
Kartboy rear shifter bushing
Kartboy exhaust hangers
Kartboy trans cross member bushings
Kartboy rear subframe bolts
Kartboy rear outrigger bushings (race)
TIC rear diff mount bushings (race)
TIC shifter pivot bushings
TIC shift linkage bushings
Driveshaft shop 600hp rear axles
Driveshaft shop 600hp front axle bar upgrade

Sponsors:

Sponsor list:
201motorsports
Liquid Powdercoats
RAW Performance
Andrewtech Automotive
CVR Motorsports
Bride/Tees USA
Stance-USA
RB Chroming
Vitale Collision
JM Fabrications
Velocity Carbon
VKInnovations
Rockstar energy drinks
Akuma Motorsports

On to the next one,

T3h_Clap

Luis took his car out again for some fresh photos, I have no clue where he finds these places but they always seem to compliment the car. Take a look at Luis’s “Family Canyon Carver”.

Luis was one of the first to really prove the 08 STi could run a 9.5″ with minimal work, he could’ve gone with a low offset 9″ wheel but he decided to go with the higher offset 9.5″ to get the stance and performance he was looking for. You’ll be hard pressed to find someone that doesn’t like this car. It can be seen in a bunch of print media in most of the import magazines.

Only Luis knows what’s in store for the future of his iconic 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. The Type-F is a great looking wheel that fits the GR STi perfectly.

The second I saw the new updated photos I knew I had to put them up, this car shines proper fitment while still being aggressive. The SSR Type-Fs in 18×9.5 +40mm fit perfectly in both size and style on Luis’s 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi.

Here’s a link to the Gallery so you can check out the high res versions of his photos.

My STi – Oct2010

-T3h_clap

Khalid chose to go with an 18×9 +25mm with a 225/40/18. It isn’t my favorite choice of fitment but they are the first publicly posted Advan RG-D’s on an STi and he’s done the work to get them to fit. That alone deserves a quick feature.

On to the pics.

These wheels were released in March of this year and it took 6 mos before they showed up on an STi and they do look good. In March I asked who would be the first to be running the RG-D on the blog. New Advan Wheels. RG-D, RZ-DF. We have our answer.

Khalid’s offset choice and tire size aren’t what you normally see on the blog, it’s a little low and a little skinny but in his defense he went about making this setup work correctly. He found out what needed to be done to fit the new wheels and he was prepared to do it. These days there are far too many people blindly buying a set of wheels then asking for help, it’s refreshing to see someone more than willing to make their setup work.

Here’s to hoping his next set of tires will be a little wider and grippier!

Looking good Khalid.

Mod List/Specs:
Suspension:
Stance GR+ Coilovers with added front helper springs

Other suspension:
24mm Whiteline adjustable sways front and rear
Kartboy links front and rear
Whiteline ALK – Standard
Whiteline RCA

Camber:
2.7 degrees front
2.3 degrees rear

Khalid wanted to thank the guys at IAG Performance for their help. “JJ and Rick are two great guys who treat their customers right and have always done spectacular work for me.” – Khalid

-T3h_clap

They didn’t wait long to roll those rear fenders, slap on a new suspension and some adjustable rear arms and some 265s. The car still has its temp tags! Go RSD! I’m not a fan of black wheels but the Matte Finish on these Advan RZ-DFs is amazing.

I’m going to try and track down the total weight of the combination.

A few details on the setup.
Suspension:
Tein Mono-Flex
Cusco Rear Trailing Arms
Cusco Rear Lateral Links

Wheels:
Advan RZ-DF 19×10 +35 Flat Black
Nitto Invo 265/30-19

A link to their blog
theATTACK Rally Sport Direct Blog

We’ll try and keep track of them. Hopefully this one sees the track like their 08 did.

-T3h_Clap

The car performed flawlessly (except some higher EGT’s which I’ll talk of later), I was happy with the performance of the Dunlop Z1 Star Specs as they were the only thing on the car I was worried weren’t going to be up for the heavy track sessions in the Sebring heat.

Quick review on my setup for the track day.

Suspension
TiC AST SST’s Coilovers with 9k/8k Swift Springs
Vorshlag Camber Plates Front and Rear
Whiteline Plus Bushings (Lateral Link, Rear Trailing Arm, Front Control Arm)
Whiteline Offset Caster Bushing
STi Pink Trailing Arms
Custom Wales Garage/Penguin Garage Alignment
-3.8 front camber, -2.2 rear camber, ZERO toe

Wheels/Brakes
17×10 +38mm Enkei RPF1
245/40/17 Dunlop Z1 Star Spec
ARP Wheel Studs
Project Mu Lug Nuts
Hawk DTC-70′s
DBA 4000′s

Engine
APS 3″ TBE
Cobb AP v1
Pro Tune by Jarrad
Koyo Radiator
Samco Radiator hoses
Greddy Oil Cooler

The Suspension setup was amazing, even with the very bumpy nature of Sebring International Raceway the TiC AST SST’s did amazing. The car absorbed all of the bumps and the car always felt stable. There was only a few “clean laps” where I wasn’t held up by traffic. Being in the Novice group I did run into alot of traffic, it wasn’t a terrible thing as this allowed me to focus on my driving line and less about going full throttle or late braking.

With the addition of the Koyo Radiator my water temp never budged, my Greddy Oil Cooler kept my oil temps in check even with the searing Sebring heat. My EGT gauge was showing some rather high EGT temps so I wasn’t pushing it 100% on the straights, only about 50% throttle on both straightaways. They peaked at 980c or about 1800f if I remember correctly. I’m tempted to get a new tune, as it’s been a few years, just to make sure the car isn’t running too hot. Any thoughts on the high EGT temps don’t hesitate to comment.

I can’t wait to go out to the next Sebring event, I hope to be down for the Redline event in August to see Turn In Concepts tear it up in the Florida heat.

Enough with the chat, on to more photos! Huge thanks to a fellow WRX driver and owner of Colour Tech South Motorsports Photography, LLC. Henry.

Matt bought his 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited in October 2006, there hasn’t been a dull moment with this car. Matt bought STi Limited #657/800, and has had a wrench in his hand until present day. That’s nearing four years of differing phases and modifications. This isn’t Matt’s first modified car, nor his first Subaru.

Matt’s modding addiction began with a 2006 Audi A3 2.0T. The car was a ton of fun, had a bit of refinement and luxury, but it was missing one key ingredient: AWD. Matt did everything he could to that car aside from pull the engine, but it was still not as fun as an AWD Subaru that could put the power down. That said, Matt has a bit of a bias for Subaru’s based on his history with them – Matt’s first car was a ’96 Subaru Forester, he also a had a 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. The 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited featured here, and his 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI that he uses for daily driving duties are currently in his garage. Needless to say, he has a bit of a thing for Subaru’s.

So, with Matt’s background in professional sports and being competitive in everything he does, he set his sights on his newly acquired ’07 STI Limited and decided to make it as fast and well built as his bank account would allow. The original goal was to have a very fast, but reliable, street car. That goal changed as he got further into the build and realized how much fun tracking the car was. At this point, the ultimate goal is to have a very competitive Subaru track car, one that can hang with the big boys – the Z06s, 911’s, GT-R’s, and the like.

Once his final goals were established, he got in touch with Rocket Rally Racing ( www.rocketrally.com), one of the premier Subaru and rally shops in Canada. The owner of the shop, Pat Richard, is a multiple National and North American rally champion. With many titles under his belt, as well as countless rally builds, street car builds, and road race car builds, Matt was 100% confident that this was the guy, and the shop, to take his 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited to. He was 100% right, the end result is a car with a reliable 504WHP on the daily driving map (94 octane + 30:70 meth injection) and 573WHP on the race map (VP109 + meth).

The final build was completed late 2009. Matt only had time for one lapping event before the snow flew. He also hadn’t had time to get the suspension completely dialed in, nor were his alignment settings ideal. The end result was an extremely tail happy, loose, scary 500+WHP experience. Matt had some work to do over the winter break.

Current setup –
Fast forward to today, the work over the winter and spring has allowed Matt to get the car dialed in for the track. Here’s what has been done over the winter and spring:

Chassis prep:
Matt has done a large amount of weight reduction. Removing the entire A/C system, the OEM air pump is gone, the interior is gutted, the OEM subframe was swapped for an Oswald Performance lightweight subframe, a new lightweight battery replaced the heavy stock battery, and all sound deadening is removed. Matt also replaced his OEM hood and trunk with Seibon dry carbon fiber pieces. The dry carbon pieces are extremely lightweight, and very strong. All in all, pretty much anything else non-essential has been removed from the car.

To deal with downforce, Matt has a Voltex Type-2V, 1400mm wing. He also has an APR front splitter and diffuser about to go on.

Lastly, Matt had a 6-point roll cage welded in since he wasn’t allowed to compete without a cage and harness at his modification level.

Suspension:
Matt’s ride height is currently 13.5” in the front (hub to fender) and 13” in the rear. He’s running -3* camber up front, and -2.5* camber in the rear. Matt is going to be diallng in a little bit more front camber yet, to suit the R-compound tires.
Matt recently upgraded to Hyperco 12k/10k springs for his Ohlins Flag Series coilovers since the Eibach 8k/6k springs were absolutely not up to the task after installing the cage. With the incredible increase in chassis stiffness, those relatively soft springs were getting crushed in tight corners since the chassis was not absorbing or flexing at all. At this point, Matt has yet to try the 12/10’s on the track, but he has faith that it will definitely help his cornering stability.

Wheels/Tires:
Matt has two wheel/tire setups for a little function and a little form.
Street: For the street, Matt is running gunmetallic Advan RZ wheels in 18×9 +35mm offset. Mounted to those wheels are Yokohama Advan AD07 tires in 265/35R18.

Track: For the track, Matt needed a wheel that was stronger and lighter than the cast Advan’s, so Matt opted to go with a set of forged Volk Racing Wheels. The Volk Racing CE28n has always been one of his favorite wheels, so when the opportunity came up to buy a set of J-Spec (White with a Red Lip), 18×9 +35mm CE28n’s, He jumped all over it. Mounted to those wheels are Toyo R888’s in 255/35R18.

To get those wheels and tires to fit, Matt had to used my fender article as a guide to mutilate his rear fenders. I busted out the grinder, the ball peen and dead blow hammers, and took care of business.

So, at this point, everything should be set for the rest of the season of Solo Sprint. Matt’s next event is July 4th, so we all are looking forward to seeing how all the changes (suspension, aero, etc) work out since his last timed event.

On to the HUGE! Mod List

ENGINE
Heads/Cams:
1) Cosworth Big Valve, ported performance cylinder heads

Bottom end:
2) Crawford S3L-i with custom 8.2:1 billet pistons

Engine Management:
1) Autronic SM4
- SM4
- Prototype Knock Board
- Cable throttle conversion
2) Rocket Rally tune

Oiling:
1) Moroso Oil Pan and Pick-up tube assembly
2) Crawford A/O Separator
3) Shimmed OEM oil pump
4) Custom VTA breather system (more info to be posted later)

Fueling:
1) Deatschwerks 850cc injectors
2) Custom Rocket Rally motorsports fueling setup
- Custom surge tank
- All -AN fittings
- Aeromotive A1000
- Aeromotive fuel filter
- Aeromotive FPR
- Walbro in-tank Fuel Pump

Turbo:
1) APS TSR70 w/ 1.06A/R back housing (HPC 1600*F coating)

Intake:
1) APS TSR70 specific 80mm CAI

Exhaust manifold and UP:
1) APS Twinscroll Exhaust Manifold
2) APS Twinscroll Up-Pipe w/ Tial 44mm EWG

Exhaust:
1) APS R5 (3.5″) TBE

Intercooler:
1) APS DR725 FMIC w/ custom (reversed) I/C piping

Water Injection:
1) Aquamist HFS-5 w/ Spec C 12L tank

Intake manifold:
1) Flipped JDM Ver.9 manifold (no TGV’s) with custom I/C piping

BPV:
1) BOV block off plate (no BOV)

Radiator:
1) Koyo Racing Radiator
2) Samco Radiator hoses (black)

SUSPENSION
1) Q-Rack quick steering rack: 11.5:1 ratio
2) Ohlins Flag Series Coilovers
3) Hyperco 12k/10k springs
4) Whiteline 27-29mm Adjustable FSB
5) Whiteline 24mm RSB
6) Kartboy Front endlinks
7) Cobb Rear Endlinks

DRIVETRAIN
1) Group-A Subframe locking bolts
2) ACPT CarbonFiber Driveshaft
3) Cobb dual-adjustable STI short shifter
4a) Kartboy Front shifter bushings
4b) Kartboy Rear shifter stay bushings
4c) Kartboy shifter pivot bushings
4d) Kartboy shifter linkage bushings
5) TiC Tranny Crossmember bushings
6) Beatrush engine pitch stop mount
7) Group-N “Performance” hardened engine mounts
8 ) Group-N “Performance” hardened transmission mounts
9) Rocket Rally tuned Custom P-n-P DCCD controller
10) Oswald front subframe
11) 6-point MIG and TIG welded roll cage

Fluids:
1) Motul Competition FF 75W140 transmission oil
2) Motul Gear 75W90 rear differential fluid

WHEELS/TIRES
Track:
1) Volk Racing CE28N J-Spec (white/red) 18×9, +35mm. Toyo R888 255/35R18

Street:
1) Advan RZ, 18×9, +35mm. Yokohama Advan AD07 265/35R18

BRAKING
Calipers:
1) Stoptech 355mm 6-Pot BBK
2) OEM STI Brembo 2-pots

Rotors:
1) Stoptech 355mm slotted rotors
2) DBA 4000 slotted rotors

Pads:
Street:
1) Front – Ferodo 2500
2) Rear – Hawk HPS

Track:
1) Front – Hawk DTC70
2) Rear – Hawk DTC60

Fluid:
1) Motul RBF 660

Brake Lines:
1) Tecnafit stainless steel braided brake lines

EXTERIOR
1) Seibon Dry CF hood
2) Seibon Dry CF trunk
3) Voltex Type 2V 1400mm wing
4) APR front splitter
5) APR rear diffuser
6) Autospeed “STI” anodized black front licence plate filler
7) CF licence plate frame
8 ) 5-window tint
9) ’04/05 Tails
10) RavSpec CF exhaust shield (06/07 specific)
11) GrimmSpeed hood dampers
12) Painted headlight housings

INTERIOR
1) Mainly gutted
2) Bride Zeta III driver and passenger seat
3) G-Force 6-point harness
4) Gauges:
- Defi BF Amber 60mm gauges (OP, Boost, EGT)
- Defi clock pod, paint and texture matched
- Autometer Dual Gauge Pod Cluster bezel
- Innovate LC-1 WB02 + DB Gauge (red)
- Aquamist DDS3 Water injection gauge
5) Beatrush rear bulkhead division plate
6) Custom carbon fiber DIN-panel

WEIGHT REDUCTION
1) Estimated total weight reduction: 360.4lbs

Some Random Shots of Matt’s car over the years.

Above is a snapshot of Matt’s first set of Race Wheels, 18×8.5 +45mm Rays Engineering 57F.

Unloading @ Rocket Rally on his original BBS RE’s.

Matt’s Future Plans and Thank yous:
As weird as this sounds, I could see myself upgrading to a Full Race twinscroll 40R equivalent kit (but with the BW turbo). As if 500WHP isn’t enough. 600WHP+ would put a smile on anyone’s face!

Last but not least, a quick thank you –
The only company I’d really like to thank is Rocket Rally Racing. Through all the ups and downs of the various stages of my build (and believe me, there were some ugly downs), Pat Richard and Rocket Rally have stood behind their work 100%. The build itself, the tuning, the post-sales service, the customer support, and pretty much everything customer service related that you hope a company will offer, they do. I would and do suggest them to every person I talk to interested in major builds because they are truly a one stop shop.
www.rocketrally.com

As always any questions/comments don’t hesitate.

-T3h_Clap

About Dan aka BoostJunkie:

Dan began doing HPDE events in 2004, right after he bought his STi. A family friend suggested that Dan and his dad sign up for an event at VIR. No question, Dan was hooked.

Dan began branching out to other organizations like NASA, Mazdadrivers, Audi Club, Mercedes Club, and TrackDaze.

After he graduated college Dan decided to change the 2005 Subaru from a daily driver into a full time race car. At the beginning of the 2009 season, he completed a NASA TT license evaluation and went on to do a full season in the TTS class. Dan won the season championship for his class. Winning the class championship is a huge accomplishment and shows Dan’s dedication and ability.

The Car:

Every (ok 90%) of STi owners think it wont be necessary to modify their new car and we’re all wrong. Dan is no different and if you have followed Dan’s car over the last few years you know this is true. Dan had the opportunity/pleasure to work with the Myles @ Race Comp Engineering, this was two fold. RCE helped Dan learn the technical aspect of suspension tuning and RCE also began using Dan’s car to test new products on the street and track.

Over the next few years, Dan’s 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi went through many different suspension setups, and continued to modify other aspects of the car as well. Initially the goal was to create the ultimate dual purpose street and track car, and he was able to find a good balance between the two. A year or so ago, Dan got to the point where he was able to turn the car into a purpose built race car. Doing so is alot harder than it sounds. Turning a Street Car into a purpose built race car is more than “gutting and caging”, Dan learned this first hand.

Dan trusted IAG Performance in Westminster, MD with building a custom roll cage. A huge amount of weight was removed from the car, which meant pulling out all of the HVAC components, gutting the doors, and basically taking out everything in the car that wasn’t serving a purpose on track. The incredible increase in chassis stiffness required a suspension setup to match, so a set of JRZ RS Pro dampers were installed. IAG rolled and pulled the fenders to make room for a set of 275/35/18 Hoosier R6′s mounted on Enkei NT03+M’s in 18×9.5 +40. Leaving no aspect of the car’s setup untouched, a SARD carbon kevlar wing and a custom alumalite front splitter were installed to add some much needed downforce. Dan spent many hours stripping the cabin wiring harness and rewiring most of the electrical components to reduce weight.

Once the car was back together, Dan focused on dialing in the new suspension and getting used to driving the car. Dan’s lap times continued to shorten once Dan started fine tuning the new JRZ RS Pro’s. The car was now able to compete with the front runners in its class, and with a win and a second place finish in the two races during the second to last race weekend of the year, Dan had secured the TTS Championship.

The final race weekend of the season at Summit Point started off well, and Dan took second place on Saturday behind a very fast Corvette Z06. During the Sunday morning warm-up, the car suffered a brake line failure while entering Turn 1 at nearly 150mph. The car entered the gravel trap sideways and rolled 3 times, landing on the other side of the tire wall. Miraculously, Dan suffered only minor injuries and was able to climb of the car under his own power. The car, on the other hand, was damaged beyond repair. However, Dan already has started to rebuild the car, and already has a GD Impreza chassis to work with. With any luck, we will see a new and improved version of the car during the 2010 season.

Sponsors:

RaceComp Engineering:
Dan’s relationship with RaceComp Engineering goes back to 2005, when he began working there. Throughout the years, they have provided many parts for the car, including their swaybars, kool brake kit, GTWorx camber plates, and many parts from other manufacturers. They have also provided a great deal of input for chassis setup. Myles Williams, the company’s founder, has given Dan personal driver coaching, drawing on his many years of racing experience.

IAG Performance:
IAG Performance in Westminster, MD came on board as a sponsor about a year ago. They have done extensive fabrication work on the car, including the construction of the roll cage. They have also provided their header and external wastegate uppipe, as well as a few miscellaneous parts. IAG has performed much of the maintenance work on the car, including regular alignments, tire mounting and balancing, and ECU tuning. They have committed to being a key part of the build process for the new car, and even provided the chassis as a starting point. Their meticulous attention to detail produces incredible results, and their support has been essential to Dan’s success over the past season.

JRZ Suspension Engineering:
JRZ joined this project in the middle of the 2009 season, providing a set of their 2-way adjustable RS Pro dampers. They are externally adjustable for both compression and rebound, and also feature remote fluid canisters and adjustable nitrogen pressure. Their build quality and performance are both outstanding. Bryan Hise, the east coast representative for JRZ USA, has offered invaluable support and setup help.

Stoptech:
Stoptech provided one of their front big brake kits for this project, featuring ST-60 6 piston calipers and 355x32mm rotors. They have also offered ongoing support, supplying replacement rotors and a great deal of expertise pertaining to pad selection, operating temperatures, and more. Dan plans to continue his relationship with Stoptech and use one of their big brake kits on his new STi build.

Kaminari Aerodynamics/Racetech North America:
This past season, Kaminari supplied a set of their race lateral links, featuring 6061-T6 seamless tubing and rod ends that are rated at 28,000 lbs. They also provided a pair of their brake duct inlets, essential in feeding cool air to the front brakes. Dan also uses a Racetech RT4009HR seat, although he purchased it before his sponsorship agreement with Racetech North America. He is looking forward to working with them on his new project, as the quality of both their aerodynamic and mechanical parts is top notch.

Dan’s 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi was an amazing car and we all were stunned when we heard of his accident. Dan being “Ok” after his accident says a lot about Subaru and IAG’s cage work. This is a risk all of us take while we’re track our cars but we can choose to build and own safe cars.

The Mod list you’re about to scroll through looks more like a wishlist of the average STI owner. I can’t wait to see the new car once it is complete. (Scroll down for a few teaser shots of the new car).

Mod List:

Engine:

-Element Tuning GT52 turbo
-APS DR525 Intercooler
-Deatsch Werks 850cc Injectors
-GTSpec Equal Length Header
-IAG EWG Uppipe/Dumptube
-Tial 44mm Wastegate
-Mocal Oil Cooler/Thermostat
-Covert Performance Fuel Surge Tank
-Bosch Motorsport 044 External Fuel Pump
-Perrin Turbo Inlet
-APS 70mm CAI
-TGV Deletes
-Grimmspeed 8mm Phenolic Intake Manifold Spacers
-Element Tuning Competition Catch Can
-Koyo Aluminum Radiator
-Samco Radiator Hoses
-Invidia Bellmouth Downpipe
-Invidia N1 Race Full Titanium Catback
-Prodrive Boost Control Solenoid
-AEM 3.5 bar MAP Sensor w/ Cobb Adapter
-Cobb Accessport Version 2
-Protuned by Jorge at P&L
-374whp/365wtq (93 octane)
-419whp/437wtq (Sunoco GT100)
-Turbosmart Dual Port BOV
-Cusco Engine Mounts
-Walbro 255lph In-Tank Fuel Pump
-NGK 1 Step Colder Plugs
-Crucial Racing Thermostat
-Odyssey PC680 w/ Billet Mount

Suspension/Brakes:

-JRZ RS Pro Dampers
-GTWorx Camber Plates F+R
-Hyperco Main Springs/Swift Helper Springs
-Q-rack 11.5:1 Steering Rack
-RCE 25.5mm Adjustable Swaybars
-Kaminari Race Lateral Links
-Covert Performance Subframe
-Kartboy Rear Endlinks
-Whiteline Sport ALK
-Whiteline Roll Center Kit
-Whiteline Plus Trailing Link/Front Control Arm Bushings
-Kartboy Botox Bolts
-Greddy Front Strut Bar
-Stoptech 6-Piston 355mm Front BBK
-Cobb SS Rear Brake Lines
-Hawk DTC-70 pads
-Motul RBF600 Fluid
-RCE Kool Brake Kit
-Cusco Master Cylinder Brace

Transmission:

-Exedy Stage 1 Clutch
-STi Short Shifter
-Kartboy Front/Rear Shifter Bushings
-Cusco Transmission Mount
-Kartboy Subframe Outrigger Bushings
-TiC Rear Diff Mount Bushings

Wheels/Tires:

-Enkei NT03+M – 18×9.5 +40 w/ Hoosier R6 – 275/35/18 (dry)
-Enkei NT03+M – 18×9.5 +40 w/ Hoosier Radial Wets – 275/35/18 (wet)

Shop for Hoosier tires at Tire Rack.

Exterior:

-Cusco Front Lip
-Custom Alumalite front splitter
-SARD Carbon Kevlar Wing
-Kaminari Brake Duct Inlets
-Lightwerkz TSX Projector Headlight Retrofit
-Craft Square Carbon Fiber Side Mirrors
-Varis Carbon Fiber Exhaust Shield
-KS-Tech Hood Vent
-Sparco Hood Pins
-OEM WRX Sideskirts
-Rennline Front Tow Hook
-NRG Hood Struts
-Autospeed Front Bumper Trim
-Blue Batmobile Taillight Overlays
-Black i Badge
-Custom Vinyl by IAG Performance

Interior:

-Racetech RT4009HR Seat
-IAG Performance Custom Rollcage
-Schroth Profi II-Y Harness
-OMP Targa Steering Wheel
-Sparco Steering Wheel Hub/Quick Release
-Amerex 2.5lb. Halon Fire Extinguisher w/ Brey Krause Mount
-Defi Amber BF Boost/EGT/Oil Press. Gauges
-Allview Racers Mirror
-Custom Carbon Fiber Switch Panel
-Custom Lightweight Wiring Harness
-Gutted Doors w/ Removable Front Windows
-Removed A/C and Heater Core
-Removed Intercooler Sprayer System
-Removed All Interior Panels/Carpet/Sound Deadening, Gutted Stock Dash
-Lathe Werks Copolymer Shift Knob

As always don’t hesitate to post comments/questions.

-t3h_Clap

3 Magazines

What do these three magazines have in common?

1.) Awesome cars
2.) Subarus
3.) Excellent Wheel Selection
4.) All on T3hClap.com!

First is Performance Auto and Sound and Bill’s 06 STI.  He’s been on the blog more than once.

Want to be Aggressive? Are you willing to do what it takes?

How To Be Aggressive Version 2.0

Bill's 06 STI +22mm Volk Racing TE37s

Next is magazine #2 Modified Magazine and Logan’s Top Scoob winning GRB STI.

Logan’s Top Scoob Winning GR STi w/ 18×10’s!

Logan's Top Scoob STI

18x10.5 +22mm Prodrive GC010Gs

Magazine Number 3 is DSport. The article is about a Subaru Owner named Jamie, I putting together his feature this month.

Insane Jane

18x9.5 CCW C14's!

3 Magazines, 3 Features all of them on this one blog.

It’s awesome to see all of these cars on the newsstands!

Go pick them up TODAY!

-T3h_Clap

Tim is no different then the rest of us, he chose a modification plan, he talked to vendors, he bought his parts, he got local subie guys to help, he dropped his car off at EFI and he drives the piss out of it!

Alright, there are a few differences. First Tim chose to put the smaller 16″ Specification brakes off the JDM 16″ Specification Spec C STi. These brakes use the same caliper as the 06/07 WRX here in the US but with a different sized rotor, 5×114.3 and properly sized for the rear parking brake and R180.

Why go to the smaller brakes you ask? one word. Abilitytofit15inchrallytires. As many of you know the Brembos require a minimum of a 17″ wheel. There are very very few rally tires made in sizes larger than 15″. This leaves little choice for people wanting true rally tires. Little brakes and 15″ wheels here we come!

Tim first saw the WRC on SPEED channel back when it aired more then NASCRAP. He was 12 years old and was instantly hooked. Tim like many of us used to stay up until midnight to watch. Tim’s favorite team was of course Subaur WRT and he quickly became obsessed with the WRC Subaru Impreza WRX STi. After Tim graduated college and nailed down his first “Grown up” job he bought his STi. This is the first car he’s modded if you can believe that.

Another similarity between Tim and the rest of us is that he built this car to compete in multiple different types of racing and more than one rule book. He shot for both NASA/USRC and RallyAmerica. Building the car to be eligible for both associations allow Tim to run more events and enjoy the car more.

Ok, ok lets be honest. Tim is a little crazier then alot of us. haha. He did put a huge 4 light pod, full cage, and removed the interior in a perfectly good 2006 STi. What did he end up with? A perfect hill climbing rally monster that not only looks the part but also performs! I can’t wait to see more video/photos/info on Tim’s Rally Bagger.

This RallyBagger was built with the help of a few key vendors/people.

Most Important – EFI Logics – simply put Chris and his crew are the best. No words describe them!

EFI Logics

Sunshine Sign for all the graphics and continued stickering of the car

Sunshine Sign

Rallispec, TurnInConcepts, and HMS Motorsport for helping out with some of the build

Turn In Concepts
Ralli Spec
HMS Motorsport

Of course a link to the Teams site

Pin It To Win It Blog

Tim has a busy schedule coming up, good luck!

Upcoming events

Rallies
January 23-24th Winter Rally New York – Snow
April 16-17th Rally New York – Tarmac
July 16-17th New England Forest Rally – Gravel
September 10-11th International Rally NY – Gravel

Hill Climbs (Dates not established yet)
Mt. Ascutney I: May
Burke I: June
Okemo I: July
Okemo II: August
Burke II: August
Mt. Ascutney II: September
Philo: October

Mod List

Engine/Turbo
Stock VF39
EFI Logics Custom Race Exhaust
COBB SF intake
COBB AP2
Gimmick MAF tube
GroupN Engine mounts
Kartboy Pitch Stop

Suspension/Driveline
DMS 50mm Gravel Coilovers
GroupN top hats
Every bushing TiC offers – Seriously
GroupN tranny mount
GroupN Engine mounts
Rear lock down bolts

Interior
Cobra Suzuka GT seats
Terratrip Kill switch
DEFi gauges/control unit
Terratrip Intercom
Terratrip Rally computer
Schroth 6 point Profi Harnesses
Terratrip Map Lights
Custom Rally Spec cage built by Chris Howard

Exterior
Custom Vinyl by Voodoo Graphics (a division of Sunshine Sign)
Custom Rallybagger mud flaps
Roof Vent
Prodrive Carbon Fiber replica Light Pod
Hella 700FF Driving lights x2
KC Hilites 50 series x2

Brakes/Wheels/Tires
JDM GroupN rotors
JDM GroupN calipers
Hawk HP+ pads
SS lines
ATE Superblue fluid
SpeedLine 15×7” Corse 2020 cast magnesium
BBS 17×8” STi – Tarmac
Hankook Ventus rs202 Gravel tires
Kumho KW19 studded Snow tires
ToyoR888 Tarmac tires

I’ve got the current Top Scoob himself Logan here to chit chat about his setup a little. This car looks amazing. skip the small talk, here is Top Scoob Logan’s GR Subaru Impreza WRX STI with 18×10 Advan RZ’s.

T3h_Clap: First things first, is this your first Subaru? if not, what are some of your other/older Subarus?

Logan: Yes actually, this is my first to car heavily mod. I was just planning on going stage 2 because I wanted something reliable and turbod and exhaust, but the Subaru mod fever struck.

T3h_Clap: why the GR STi?
Logan: I wanted a new engine to work with. Something that someone hasn’t done a thousand times. So I got the new body style to create something different and I knew it would be fresh. I love the GD chassis, but i hope Subaru discontinues the hatchback sti soon. I want it to only be made two years. Kind of hoping its just a random quirky Subaru that wasn’t over populated and over viewed. haha if that makes sense.

T3h_Clap: What did you build the car for? (Street/Track/Dual/Drag/Autox etc?)
Logan: Daily Driving, but the Track is where I am headed, so that’s my next step in plans. Since I lived in Missouri, there are not any places to track, now in Florida I am trying to find some tracks besides Daytona.

T3h_Clap: What are the specs on your wheels/Tires? Any special requirements to get them to fit?
Logan: the wheels are Advan Rz 18×10 +30 tires are nexen 3000 (****ty tires, cause wheels cost too much ha) 275/35/18 and all four fenders are rolled to fit. Camber is -2.5 front -2.4 back. My ride height is just above slammed on the bc coils.

T3h_Clap: Any plans on going to a wider wheel/tire?
Logan: As soon as I finish school plan on fitting some 18x11s on there with 295s or 305s. Just to say it can be done, but obviously not for tracking.

T3h_Clap: Any plans doing competitive racing?
Logan: Not really, since I’m still in college for recording arts and music business, I’m going to pursue this for a while and the keep the cars hobbies and fun for now, would deff get out there when i have some down time at some Time Attack events or something. that would be the ****.

T3h_Clap: Where can people see the car? (meets/shows/track events?)
Logan: Every week down in Orlando, there is a Wednesday night meet at the sonic on south Semoran. And there is an AWD meet coming up. Also look for my car in Modified Mag thanks to Peter.

T3h_Clap: Quick blurb about you and your car, any notable hang ups, funny stories.
Logan: This car has been the biggest pain in the ass, but the most love owning it. Hauling it up to Chicago and watching Jorge drive away in your car after being tuned and watching it rip down the road. Makes me smile real big! But OMG! every install something weird and out of the ordinary pops up and causes problems. But that’s part of it being a Subaru I guess.

T3h_Clap: Shout out to Friends, Forums, Blogs, Sponsors, Vendors, Photogs, Family.
Logan: I would like to thank,
My family and friends!
Jorge and the whole crew at P and L Motorsports
Josh from importimage
Bryan from CVR Motorsports
Dave at SKPerformance
Perrin
TIC

Great looking car, not hard to see why he won the Top Scoob title for best GR on Nasioc.

This is one hell of a mod list:

Engine & Exhaust:

Pro tuned by jorge at P & L
Accessport Engine Management
Invidia N1 Race
Cobb Lightened Pulley
SPT Oil Cap
Samco Radiator Hoses
SPT Battery Tie Down
EBCS
Royal Purple 5W-30
Subtle Radiator Shroud
P&L FMIC
GT35R Rotated .82 A/R
P&L CAI
P&L Catless DP (ceramic coated)
P&L EWG Up Pipe (ceramic coated)
Perrin EL Headers (ceramic coated)
Pnp Intake Manifold
TGV Deletes (ceramic coated)
Walbro 255 Fuel Pump
Tial 44mm Wastegate
Tial 50mm BOV
Deatschwerks 850cc Injectors
NGK Iridium Plugs
Perrin Catch Can

Interior:

Bride Cuga Front Seats
Bride Door Pulls
Bride Shift Boot
Bride eBrake Boot
Bride Center Arm Rest
Wedge Engineering Rails
Prosport Gauges:
Boost
Oil Pressure
Oil Temp
EGT
AEM Uego Wideband AFR
JL HD Amp with Custom sub enclosure with 12″ JL Sub
JL Cleansweep (to keep my Nav)
STI Red Pedal Kit
Painted Interior Pieces
DIY A-pillar Triple Pod
Viper 5901 Alarm System
Alcantara wrapped Steering Wheel

Drivetrain:

Cobb Double Adjustable short shifter
Kartboy Front Shifter Bushings
SPT Rear Shifter Bushing
Cobb Knob
IXIS Clutch Optimizer
Group N Tranny Mount
Group N Motor Mounts
Kartboy Crossmember Bushings
Kartboy Pitch Stop
ACT HD Street Clutch
Motul Gear300
Motul 90PA Rear Diff Fluid

Exterior:

Seibon CF CW Hood – Painted
CS Bottom Line Kit – Painted
15% Tint
Hella Supertones – Painted
Painted Grill
Painted Fog Light Housings
RA Mudflaps – trimmed
DRL Delete
Rally Yellow Fog Overlays
ROLLED FENDERS
Rear Wiper Delete
Perrin Shorty Antennae
BlueBatMobile Tail Covers
Angel Eyes from Lightwerkz
Smoked Headlight Relfectors
Smoked Rear Reflectors
Painted Logos/Badges
Nukabe Tow Hook
CF Front Bumper Vents

Wheels & Suspension:

BC Racing Coilovers
Advan RZ 18×10 +30 in Gunmetal
Nexen N3000 275/35/18
Whiteline Camber Bolts
Front Camber Bolts
Whiteline Rear Subframe Inserts
Perrin Strut Brace
Perrin 22mm F Sway Bar
Perrin 22mm R Sway Bar
5Zigen Locking Lugs Blue

-T3h_Clap

Jon is on his 8th Subaru. One of the many Subaru owners sucked into the community by his roommates and closest friends. Jon’s nicely modified A4 (with the infamous 1.8T) couldn’t keep up to his friend’s WRX. As with the rest of the community one drive and you’re hooked. “It’s what makes a Subaru a Subaru”. Jon’s story about why he loves Subaru isn’t uncommon. Jon had bought a 1993 Subaru Impreza L wagon with aspirations to swap in the bigger and better WRX drivetrain into his poor unsuspecting L, something else unsuspected happened. He had an unfortunate accident where his Subaru Impreza L Wagon rolled during a Road Rally. Luckily, Jon had chosen the right car, the little L saved his life and like many other fortunate Subaru Owners, Jon walked away unscathed. Not only did a Subaru save Jon’s life but it also introduced him to some of his closest friends and one of the best communities of Owners in the Industry. Jon says it best “I am so thankful for the friendly Subaru community and all my close friends that I have met because of Subaru.”

Ready To Pounce 08 STI

Jon took his previous street car (Subaru Legacy Spec.B) and his previous track car (Mazda Mazdaspeed Miata) and traded them both in on this sexy Obsidian Black Pearl 2008 STI. It was hard to say no to some of the offers Subaru was putting on the table. Eventually, Jon just broke down and decided it was time to get back on the track in a Subaru, and just for kicks decided he’d Daily Drive it too! This animal of an STI has been to Buttonwillow, Willow Springs, Streets of Willow and Auto Club Speedway all driven by Jon himself (gotta tune the nut between the seat and the wheel!). 

Prodrive GC-010G 18x9.5 +32mm and 255/35/18 RE01Rs

Jon’s performance path is best described by him, he’s not one of the uniformed consumers who just buy random stuff because they like the name or found it in a magazine.

“All of the parts on this car have been carefully selected in comparison to the past where I would find just the best deals. I owe a lot to my sponsors, Ferdie at South Coast Subaru who has guided me the whole way through the build of this car and also my tuners both Paul Yim and Paul Leung of YimiSport Tuning in Santa Clarita, CA. They have been nothing but supportive and have encouraged me to be competitive in Time Attack races.”

YimiSport Tuning should sound familiar for you loyal blog readers, they also tuned the Family Man’s track car owned by Jamie. The guys at YimiSport Tuning in Santa Clarita are turning out some amazing vehicles. The Time Attack circuit is going to get attacked by a full squad of YimiSport Tuning cars.

Jon's 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI rolling shot 18x9.5s!

Jon’s car is getting some well deserved exposure in a few publications here in the future, keep your eyes open.

It’s up to the Nasioc Subaru Community to vote for the next Top Scoob and I’ve got my vote in for Jon.

I’m going to have to get a review from Jon on how he likes the new RE-11′s once he gets done with a few more events.

And it’s up to Jon to get out there and show some of the big dogs who’s boss out there on the Time Attack Circuit!

The Modlist:

Wheels/Tires:
Prodrive GC-010G 18×9.5 +32 (Type L lip, Type M face)
Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 255/35/18 (for Time Attack Street Class)
Project Kics R40 Lugnuts

Suspension/Brakes:
KW Clubsports 9k/9k
Cobb Front Sway
Whiteline Rear Sway
Whiteline Rear Sway brackets
Whiteline Steering Rack Bushings
Whiteline Roll Center Kit
Whiteline ALK
Whiteline Chassis Brace
Cusco Rear Lateral Links
Hawk HP+ F+R (Street)
Project Mu Level Max 900 F+R (Track)
Goodridge Stainless Steel Brake Lines
Motul RBF600

Engine:
Invidia Catted DP
Milltek Catback exhaust (same as on the Litchfield Type 20)
AEM Cold Air Intake
Perrin Turbo Inlet
Tomei EXpreme Equal Length Header w/ uppipe
Prodrive BCS
Prodrive Battery Tie Down
Prodrive Oil Cap
Crawford Performance A/O Separator
Cobb AP V2 (from my Spec.B )
YimiSport ProTune w/ Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting
300 whp 357 wtq

Exterior:
Varis Front Lip (Dry Carbon)
PIAA Plasma Ion 9006 Foglight Bulbs
BlueBatmobile Rear Taillight overlays
17% Tint

Interior:
Recaro SPG
Bride FO Rails
Kenwood DNX-7120 Navi Headunit
SWI-JACK
Prova Shift Knob
JDM Subaru AV Panel
Rally Innovations Harness Bar
Schroth Profi II ASM Harness

Super Thanks to:
My understanding girlfriend for my obsession 
Ferdie at South Coast Subaru
The Pauls at Yimi Sport Tuning
Firestone of Rowland Heights
Team SCS: vinceGC8, samleeiii, Dr.Chu

-t3h_Clap

Earlier this year I got a PM from a guy looking to compete in One Lap of America, he had some standard fitment questions that we helped figure out. Although he did have one criteria that I don’t normally consider when helping with a Race Car’s wheel/tire fitment.

The guys at Moroccan Gold Imports needed a tire that could be Streetable, Track Ready, perform on the Wet Skid Pad, AND still have tread 2/32nd’s of tread after it’s all said and done!! Talk about a feat, I let the guys worry about the rest of the car. R.J. set the requirements of what was needed and we bounced back and forth for a few weeks. He decided to run a sick tire setup. Kumho Ecsta XS in a 275/40 slapped on some 17×9 +42mm on some 17×9 +42mm wheels.

Yes this is the infamous car to get pulled over by the Florida Highway Patrol and get featured in Motortrend!!

http://wot.motortrend.com/6535014/one-lap-of-america/busted-florida-highway-patrol-1-team-moroccan-gold-imports-0/index.html

Photo Courtesy of Motortrend

For updates on the MGI One Lap of America team check out their Blog http://www.moroccangoldimports.com/

They’ve been updating it daily with plenty of videos and pics! Go MGI!!

The car looks great all stickered up. Keep taking down the competition!

Good luck guys!

-T3h_Clap

9.5 +22mm TE37

Getting an 18×9.5 +22mm TE37 with a 255 to fit on any Subaru takes considerable effort and planning. Bill, as always, was willing to do what it takes to have one of the most aggressive setups on an GD STi.

Bill’s fresh new Engine bay oozes goodness, from the custom powdercoated Valve Covers and Intake manifold (Flipped of course) to the Polished Compresser Housing on his GT30R. Cooling is handled by the Mishimoto Radiator and a Perrin Front Mount Intercooler with Custom Piping from Area 1320. The Stance GR+ coilovers and H Kansai Service Strut tower bar finish off the engine bay nicely.

Top Scoob

Bill took the prestigious award of “Top Scoob #013″ this past week, His well thought out and prepped Subaru went head to head with multiple other highly modified Subarus. I have an incling it was more than just this photo that won “Top Scoob #013″

TE37s 06 STI

 
Winning Top Scoob isn’t easy, the 18×9.5 +22mm Concave TE37s and the accompanying 255/35/18 Nitto Invo tires  didn’t simply bolt on. Getting this setup to fit required some extensive fender modifcations from the Bill and Vitale Collision. The stiffness and adjustability from the Stance GR+ coilovers helped significantly in getting the Massive Concave TE37′s to fit right. The coilovers allowed Bill to run a -3.0 front and -3.1 rear camber. The combination of the Coilovers, Fender Modifications and the Camber allowed Bill to run this crazy rarely seen aggressive setup.

18x9.5 +22mm TE37 Aggressive Fitment 06 STI

Floating around the internet I’ve seen Bill’s car pop up on Japanese, Australian, Hungarian, Malaysian, and other Forums all over the world, these new wheels will only further the spread of this amazing vehicle. I can’t wait to see more shots of Bill’s car (hopefully some action shots at an upcoming track event!).

Full Bride Interior

Below you’ll see the “short” list of modifications Bill has done to his car…ahaha “short”. 

Mod List:

Wheels/Tires/Alignment:

Volk TE37 18×9.5 +22 in Titanium Gunmetal
Nitto Invo 255/35/18
Volk Formula Floating Lugnuts
-3.0 Front Camber
-3.1 Rear Camber

Interior:

JDM Red Hazard Button
Bride Stradias in Hyper Red Gradation (2)
Black Suede Doorcards
Black Suede 02/03 Headliner
Black STi Limited Carpet
Works Bell Short Hub
Works Bell Red Quick Release 2.0
Works Bell Original Steering Wheel
Powdercoated STI Shifter Trim by LPC
JDM STi Type RA-R Shift Knob
ATI Gauge Pod
Defi Imperial BF Amber Boost Gauge
Defi Imperial BF Amber EGT Gauge
Defi Imperial BF Amber Oil Pressure Gauge
AEM Uego Wideband
Autometer Gauge pod
Painted Dash Trim
Pioneer AVIC-D3

Exterior:

Zero/Sports Front Bumper
Zero/Sports Rear Bumper
Zero/Sports Sideskirts
Zero/Sports Roof Vane
Zero/Sports CF Wing Garnish
TrueChoice Bumper Quick Releases
Autospeed STI License Plate Delete
04-05 Tail Light Swap
JDM Tail Light Mod
HKS Oil Filler Cap
Hella SuperTones powdercoated Super Chrome by LPC
Tein Bonnet Dampers
Red Lined Impreza Badge
JDM STi Radiator Cap x2
Mishimoto Temp Gauge Rad Cap
Perrin Black Radiator Shroud
JDM Subaru Rain Guards
Painted Headlights by Vitale Collision
Custom Red/Black STi Stickers by GraphicSTI
30% Tint by Ryan @ Shades of Gray
Roll Call and All Vinyls by Auditor Clothing

Performance:

ATP GT3076R .82 a/r w/ polished compressor housing and powdercoated turbine housing
TiAL 44mm EWG
TiAL Q BOV
Custom Downpipe by Area1320
Custom Up-pipe by Area1320
Tomei Expreme EL Headers
Reverse Intake Manifold powdercoated Lollipop Kandy Red over Black Frost by LPC
Grimmspeed 8mm Phenolic Spacers
TGV Deletes powdercoated Super Chrome by LPC
Custom Coolant Resevoir by Area1320
Dual Air/Oil Seperators
P&L Braided SS Power Steering line
P&L Braided SS AVCS lines
Agency Power Top Feed Fuel Rails
820cc Top Feed Injectors
Customer IC Piping by Area1320
NGK 1-Step-Colder Spark Plugs
Valve Covers powdercoated Lollipop Kandy Red over Black Frost by LPC
Honda Civic 51R Battery
Custom Cat-Back Exhaust powdercoated Lollipop Kandy Red by LPC
Customer Short Ram Intake
Perrin Signature Series FMIC
KartBoy Short Shifter
KartBoy Shifter Bushings

Suspension/Brakes:

Stance GR+ Pro Coilovers
Front and Rear Camber Plates
TIC Fender Braces
Whiteline Steering Rack Bushings
Perrin 25mm Adjustable Rear Sway Bar
Perrin Front Endlinks
Perrin Rear Endlinks
HKS Kansai Strut Tower Brace
DBA 4000XS Front Rotors
DBA 4000XS Rear Rotors
Powdercoated Stock Brembos
Hawk HPS Brake Pads
Goodridge Stainless Steel Brake Lines

Special thanks as always to:
Chaz Boyd photography
12Volt Perfection
Liquid Powder Coats
Area1320
Shades of Gray Tint
Turbo Tek Tuning
Auditor Clothing
Stance-USA
CVR Motorsports
Vitale Collision
EDO Performance
R/T Tuning
Mishimoto

EVO X 19x10.5 CE28Ns

Archie hasn’t done things slowly in terms of modifying. He had some killer 18×9.5 TE37s on his car shortly after buying it. Then he decided to run some very slick 19×9.5 AME TM02′s.

Finding a Mitsubishi EVO X running 19×10.5 CE28Ns is damn near impossible. I happen to stumble on this car while doing a feature of his friend Luis and his 08 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. Archie has chosen to build his Mitsubishi EVO X for Track use. I look forward to seeing some results from Archie once he hits the track.

Well Modified EVO X with CE28Ns

Archie has been in the Mitsubishi Lancer EVO world for awhile now, this being his second EVO. The first Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Archie had was a 2003 EVO VIII. The EVO X is a perfect example of the word Evolution.

19x10.5 +22mm Volk Racing CE28N EVO X

The EVO X you see here has one hell of a mod list. The brands of choice trickle their way down the JDM alphabet from the likes of Bride, Defi, HKS, JUN, Ralliart, Varis, and Volk. Archie hasn’t focused on only JDM parts, the Ultimate Racing exhaust and AEM alcohol injection are two of the key components netting his strong power numbers. Archie’s Mitsubishi EVO X hit 358whp and 366wtq on pump 91 and 100% Meth with 26.5 psi of boost.

EVO X 19x10.5 +22mm CE28N Volk Racing Wheels

To re-cap; No slouch in Performance, No slouch in Wheel/Tire Fitment and No slouch at the track. This EVO X is no slouch at all. I can’t wait to see what else Archie has in store.

Exterior
JUN Lip
Voltex 1500mm Carbon Fiber GT Wing
Ralliart Carbon Fiber Center Grille Cover
Ralliart Dual Exhaust Shields
JUN Carbon Fiber Mirrors
OEM Carbon Fiber Hood Scoop
HKS Carbon Fiber Side Spats
OEM Sides and Rear Aero Kit Package
Ralliart Tail Lights
Varis Carbon Fiber Dual Cannards
Varis Carbon Fiber Side Vents
Ralliart Carbon Fiber Pillars

Wheels / Tires / Suspension
Volk CE28N Formula Limited Silver in 19X10.5 +22 Offset
Falken Tires 452 275/35/19
BC Racing Coilovers

Interior
Bride Stradia Sport Seats
Defi BF Boost Gauge
Defi BF Controller
Ralliart Scuff Plates
Ralliart Carbon Fiber AC Surround Panel

Engine / Power Mods
5 Zigen Dual Cat Back Exhaust
Ultimate Racing Test Pipe with Mini Muffler
Ultimate Racing Downpipe
AEM Alcohol Injection / 100% Meth on Pump 91
Turbo Trix Upper and Lower Intercooler Pipings
Turbo Trix Intake Piping with HKS Super Megaflow Filter
AGP Intercooler
Forge BOV
Tuned on ECUTEK

Archie has had a few different wheels on his EVO X. All three listed here look great on the EVO X, none of which are the same color or design truly showing off the EVO X’s great lines and aggressive stance. Going into the wheels in a little more detail is needed. (Really just and excuse to post more photos).

19x10.5 +22mm CE28N Volk Racing

The 19×10.5 CE28Ns weren’t exactly a simple bolt on fitment. Archie had to roll the rear fenders and remove the front fender liners to make these wheels and 275/35/19 tires fit. Another requirement of getting the wheels to fit was the addition of some camber in the front, currently Archie is running -2.5 front camber.

Mitsubishi EVO X Volk Racing TE37 18x9.5 +22mm

Archie first had the 18×9.5 +22mm Volk Racing TE37s wrapped with 275/35/18 Toyo T1Rs, the 18×9.5 +22mm TE37 has that highly desirable concave face that is becoming ever so popular. The concave face doesn’t happen on 18×9.5 TE37s until the +22mm offset, the popularity of this wheel and the ease of fitment lead Archie and his EVO X to a new set of wheels quicker than he expected.

EVO X AME TM02 19x9.5 +22mm

Enter the 19×9.5 +22mm AME TM02′s wrapped in 265/35/19 Toyo T1Rs, as you see here these wheels weren’t on the car forever and now he’s stepped up to 19×10.5″ wheels.

Archie wants to thank wife Marigil for supporting him throughout his mod addiction.

There isn’t much more to say but enjoy the excellent photos taken by Luis. More of Luis’s photos can be seen here (2008 STi 18×9.5 +40mm SSR Type-Fs) and here (http://luisbicol.smugmug.com/cars).

As always any questions or comments don’t hesitate to email or comment. In the coming weeks there will be more articles focusing on the EVO models, any recommendations of features or ideas feel free to Email me. On to the pics from Luis!

Archie's 19x9.5 AME's

More 19x9.5 AME's

Volk Racing TE37 +22mm

18x9.5 +22mm TE37s Concave Face

This car is definetly done proper. The 18×9.5 +40mm Gold SSR Type Fs compliment the Aspen White 08 STi perfectly.  The fitment is spot on with a little room to grow tire wise if Luis decides to fully roll the rear fenders. His suspension setup looks like the standard 08 roll call with BC Racing Coilovers (FYI all other USDM 08s featured on the blog run BC Racing coilovers), Whiteline bars and a solid street oriented alignment that still enhances performance.

Luis comes off as a normal guy when I talked to him, but I don’t buy it. Anyone who buys an STi as a “Family” car either has the persuasion skills of a Jedi or a Wife that deserves a medal of awesomeness. Luis made a promise to his wife that he was not going to modify the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI since it’s already “fast”.  (FYI it didn’t come off the Assembly line with SSRs or Coilovers….haha).

Luis has some crazy camera skills to boot, that and his STI can be seen with its arch enemy the EVO X. The EVO X with it’s HUGE TE37s is no slouch either. The EVO X is in a few shots in this article but more photos of both the STI and the EVO can be found at Luis’s Smugmug Page here. Luis Smugmug Page. Keep your eyes on the blog for a potentional feature on that very EVO X.

Luis used to drive a torqueless go-kart of a car (Civic Si) the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is far from that with its 2.5 liter motor. Luis says he’s content with the car the way it is now, but we all say that, hell half of us mean it. Just because we mean it doesn’t mean things are going to play out as planned. Plus looking at Luis’s history of “not modifying” I have a feeling there is more in store for this Subaru Impreza WRX STI. I would keep my eyes on this 08 Subaru if I were you.

On to the mod list. 

Mod List:
Wheels/Tires/Suspension:
- 18 x 9.5 SSR Type F
- 265/35/18 Falken RT-615
- BC Racing coilovers
- Whiteline Rear camber adjustment bushings
- Whiteline 22mm adjustable Front and Rear swaybars
- rear fenders were rolled a bit (not flat, probably it was rolled about 55 degrees) – citytireonline.
- alignment settings: zero toe all around, -2* front camber; -1.6* rear camber – stokes

Performance:
- Cobb AP
- Tanabe CBE
- Injen CAI
- Invidia catted DP
- Stage 2 protune @ HBSpeed
- Crawford Air/Oil Separator

Exterior:
- RA UR mudflaps
- CF replica – chargespeed bottomline kit
- CF replica of the OEM exhaust garnish
- red taillight overlay with cutouts
- 20% tint
- OEM foglights, Venture Shield clear bra, Hella supertones, painted ST logo – intercooler, LED rear license plate bulb

Interior:
-OEM ipod interface, adjustable armrest, all weather floor mats, auto-dim rear view mirror with homelink
-CF shiftknob

Luis didn’t do this build alone, I’ll let him do the thank yous. 

I’d like to thank
My Wife: for letting me buy mods for this very expensive hobby
Young: for hooking me up with parts
Import Image Online
Turn-In Concepts
Tanabe USA: For the CBE
City Tire Online: Bryan and John for giving me a good deal on my wheel/tire combo/fender roll
HCP buddies: For helping me install all my mods
Jeff @ Stokes Tire Pros in Santa Monica: for my perfect alignment
NASIOC.COM/IWSTI.COM: for all the subie info!  
I almost forgot!  I’d like to thank myself for being a badass amateur photographer haha just kidding

As always any questions, comments feel free to post or email.

P.S. This car is amazing.

Shop for SSR wheels at Tire Rack.

This time around he’s not aiming for a track monster but a Daily Driven 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI with a few choice improvements. The improvements to Ben’s 2008 Subaru include some 18×9 +50mm SSR Type-F wheels in Silver paired up with some ultra grippy 245/40/18 Dunlop Z1 Star Specs. This combination alone transforms the look and performance of the 2008 Chassis simply from lightening up the rotational un-sprung weight and tossing out those crappy stock tires. Ben didn’t hestitate to go stage 2 with his AP and Turbo Back. He chose to go with the new MXP full 3″ turbo back (Video here).

Without further delay here are some more pics of Ben’s Killer Setup.

Ben’s setup was chosen for a few reasons. He wasn’t looking for the ultra flush look, or searching for the widest tire fitment on the block. Ben wanted a setup that he wouldn’t need to modify the fenders and could run a higher quality stock sized tire. The setup he chose is perfect for his needs. An 18×9 +50mm SSR Type-F is a great sized wheel for a 100% stock body GR chassis STI. There are no mods needed to run this wheel with the stock sized tire. This size is the same as a GD running an 18×8.5 +52mm in terms of ease of fitment, although I have to admit this 18×9 +50mm looks a lot better! Rumor has it there maybe some Coilovers on their way to Ben…but you didn’t hear it from me.

There is only one Person who knows where this car’s mod path leads and it sure isn’t me. Ben’s mod selection has always been top notch and I look forward to seeing more of this Red 08 circulating itself around the Forums.

You want 18×9 +50mm wheels to fit your GR 2008 or 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI like this?

Here is a step by step.

1.) Buy some 18×9 +50mm wheels that clear the Brembo brakes (be sure to get some quality lugs too).

2.) Buy some sticky stock sized tires (245/40/18)

3.) Get them mounted and balanced at a trusted tire shop

4.) Bolt on and Enjoy. Don’t have to go crazy to still look amazing.

The Sticky (Wheels & Tires):

18×9 +50mm SSR Type-F in Silver.

245/40/18 Dunlop Z1 Star Spec.

The Skinny (Weight Reduction):

Braille Light weight battery w/ Limited Edition STi brackets.

The Speed (Performance):

Stage 2 Tune.

MXP Full 3″ Turbo Back.

The Future (The Obvious):BC Coilovers with nice stiff rates.

^^ Always a classic glamor shot for wheels, the SSR Type-Fs in 18×9 +50mm with the FF Disk.

^^The hot new MXP full 3″ Turbo Back exits the car with two pairs of these.

^^Here is a great picture showing the front wheel placement of the 18×9 +50mm SSR Type-F’s on a 2008 GR Chassis Subaru Impreza WRX STi on the stock suspension.

Jaime came to me a while back asking for some wheel/tire advice for his 05 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. It didn’t take long to realize Jaime was serious about wanting to run a proper wheel/tire setup for his Track setup. Jaime’s Subaru was no slouch when he came to me, but once we decided on a set of Strong, Lightweight, and Affordable wheels in the correct size he had a monster on his hands.

Jaime decided to go with a 17×9.5 wheel with a +44mm offset. The new Enkei NT03+M’s were going to be shroud with a set of newly released Toyos. The new Toyo R888 has had some very good success in the Time Attack circles, Jaime chose to go with a 255/40/17. These new R888s look amazing on the Enkei NT03+M’s. In conjunction with the entire Cusco suspension line-up Jaime’s 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi is a forced to be reckoned with.

This animal isn’t all suspension. This 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi also has a killer aero package. With a Cusco Front lip matched with a Race Proven Cusco Undertray and a Cusco rear GT Spoiler this Subaru truly exhibits Function > Form. Jaime didn’t want to get left behind on the straight aways so he chose wisely and picked up a ATP GT3071 turbo with all of the proper supporting mods to make the new R888s work their hearts out on corner exit. Developing a car that not only performs in the suspension department but also the Power and Aero is something that isn’t normally seen from a privateer such as Jaime.

Jaime’s car isn’t his only pride and joy, him and his wife recently had their first child. Jaime’s dedication to both family and racing is an inspiration for many. He gives us all hope that we can have our cake and eat it to. The competition on the west coast better keep their eyes on their rear view for the bright Green Yimi Sports logo coming up fast.

Wheels and Tires
17×9.5 +44 Enkei NT03+M wheels
Toyo Proxes R888 255/40/17 tires

Suspension mods:
Cusco Zero2e w/ eCon
Stiffer spring rates (10K/8K range)
Cusco sway bars
Cusco trailing arms
Cusco adj. lateral links
Cusco titanium front strut bar
Cusco rear strut bar w/ V-brace
Cusco motor and trans. mounts
Cusco rear adj. camber plates
Cusco front camber plate modification
KartBoy rear endlinks
TiC Giuyngmyo Fender Cowl Braces
Whiteline ALK
Whiteline steering rack bushings
Whiteline ball joint extenders
Whiteline subframe lockout bolts
Corner balanced and aligned by Darin @ WestEnd Alignment in Gardena, CA

Special Thanks from Jaime:

Angel and Joe @ EastSide Muffler in Palmdale, CA
Paul Yim @ YimiSport Tuning in Santa Clarita, CA
Tim Bailey @ SurgeLine Tuning
Meng @ Nukabe (Cusco)
Myles and Dan @ Race Comp. Eng.
SCV Fri. Night Crew
Last but not least, T3h Clap!!!

Chris, aka. boondocksaint, has one of the cleanest 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi’s in the nation. No need for a fancy body kit or crazy paint job. The only stickers on the car are his alumni sticker and an oil change reminder.

Chris’s car has a very special, very rare set of Prodrive wheels – the only set in this specific size/color in the states. The suspension is one of the most sought after setups in the Subaru community, not only because of its quality parts and design, but because it excels at nearly everything it does. Chris’s thoughtful and planned modification path has yielded a car that not only looks amazing, but also handles and performs with the best of them. Now he just needs to tighten the nut behind the wheel.

I had a chance to bounce a few PM’s back and forth with Chris prior to writing this article and here is what he had to say during the T3h_Clap interrogation.

T3h_Clap: What is the Current Suspension Setup and Settings?
Boony: TiC SST coilovers, Whiteline 24mm adjustable swaybars (front and rear), Kartboy swaybar endlinks (front and rear), Vorshlag camber plates (front and rear), Ingalls camber bolts (front and rear), CarLabs X-Brace
Sway settings: full soft on each for now
Damper settings (from full stiff): F -8, R -10 (for now)
Ride Height: Front 14″, Rear 13.5″
Alignment: Fr -1.5 (more with me in it), Rear -1.5
Toe is DEAD straight.

T3h_Clap: Any future modifications planned?
Boony: I need to do something with brakes and get corner balanced. And, at some point, I should do some power mods.

T3h_Clap: What is your Current Wheel and Tire Setup and Settings?
Boony: Prodrive GC-06H 17″ x 8.5″, +51 offset, ~16lbs each
Falken RT615 in 255/40-17
Tire Pressures: 40psi F, 37psi R
Strut Clearance: a little less than a finger width front and rear between the tire and the lower perch – doesn’t rub, but doesn’t miss by much…

T3h_Clap: What are your planned uses for the car?
Boony: Daily driving, open track days, and the occasional road trip back home to the South.

T3h_Clap: Did you set your car up for anything specific?
Boony: My car was intended to be 95% daily driver and 5% track day toy. I do not autocross at all, nor do I drag race. Road courses only. To that end, I wanted to run slightly wider rubber (I think 255 is as good a compromise between street/track as I can get) and keep some style. I needed the car to be a bit more neutral while still retaining just a bit of understeer for safety and because the car is far more capable than am I. I chose the coilovers for their ability to excel on the street and at the track. Even though stiff springs would increase track performance, the car is primarily daily driven. It is currently more comfortable than stock despite having spring rates 50% stiffer than stock.

T3h_Clap: How are your tire clearances with the TiC Coilovers and the Prodrive wheels?
Boony: Tire-to-strut clearance (actually the lower perch) is only enough to squeeze my finger between them. It’s damn close. Without the camber bolts at full positive, there would be contact. I am considering a 5mm spacer and extended studs for next year, but am still researching my options. It would allow me to run more negative camber.

T3h_Clap: Last but not least a list of sponsors/vendors/people you want to mention/thank.
Boony: Long list, in chronological order:
IWSTI.com, as it is an invaluable resource on these cars without the boy-racer attitude. GarageSpec.com and TurninConcepts.com for their help getting the wheels and suspension hooked up. CarLabs, for such an awesome, effective brace. Penguin Garage and T3h_Clap for help getting everything exactly right, and for the spoiler. AutoEurope in Berkely, MI, for mounting my tires without screwing up my wheels and for balancing them properly, and my super-secret alignment guy. Yes, I was aligned manually with string, a ruler, slip plates, and a spreadsheet. Nandan, my photographer, for the amazing photos. Lastly, all my friends in the community who have helped me learn, modify, and tweak my car – thanks to you all.

Since this Interview, Chris has replaced his RT615s with a fresh set of Bridgestone RE01Rs in the same size (255/40/17). And yes, the clearances are still tight. Chris will be tracking his car over the summer.

More Photos:

1.) How much blood do I want in my urine? 10k/8k or 14k/12k?

2.) NVH “WHAT? I Can’t hear you”

3.) How am I supposed to fit 17x10s and 275s in my backseat!?

Is it possible to build a BSP car without these sacrifices? yes, but you give up speed and leave time on the course where ever tenth counts.

I figured it was time to do a little article on my own car, T3h_Clap.

Built for BSP Autox Competition and Daily Driven in the wonderful state of Florida.

Honestly, the sacrifices aren’t that bad.

sure the exhaust is loud (APS 3″)

The Coilovers are noisy and stiff as hell (Zeal Function V6s)

But it’s worth it, the amount of Grip this little MY05 Subaru Impreza WRX STi has is amazing.

For a truly competitive BSP Subaru one NEEDS to be running at least 17x10s and 275 tires. These are the minimum. Winning Locally on a set of 8.5″ wheels with 245 tires doesn’t mean you can hang on a National Level. Of course National Level requires a driver who can hang as well, (that’s where I fail haha).

It took awhile to find a Setup that I liked.

1st it was STi Pink springs

2nd it was the Breakfast Blend (STi Pink Front Springs, PDE Front Camber plates, STi Pink Wagon Rear Springs)

3rd it was KW V3s with PDE front camber plates

4th it was the Current Zeal Function V6s with 10k/8k springs and camber plates front and rear.

All four of the setups have their ups and downs.

Pinks were great daily, but were too low and soft for big rubber.

Breakfast Blend was amazing daily, great for big rubber, but lacked the stiffness.

KW V3s amazing on the street, stiff enough for big rubber, great adjustability, but lacked the stiffness I wanted.

Zeals Stiff for sure, great adjustability but lack the ideal amount of Droop Travel.

For wheels I ended up running a set of 17×10 CCW Classics custom made with enough pad height and the Proper Disk to not require spacers to clear brembos.

The Suspension Setup that was needed to make the AutoX only 17×10 CCWs and 275/40/17 V710s to fit was as follows.

Ride height: ~14.25″ front and ~14″ rear (corner balanced so it’s not exactly that).

Camber: -2.9 Front and -1.7 Rear

Camber Plate/Bolt Trick: Rear camber plates full negative, with camber bolts in the rear set to positive to achieve final -1.7 Rear camber number. This “trick” gives added clearance between the rear strut and tire allowing me to run a higher offset then normally possible with 17x10s and 275s.

Body Modifications: to allow 17x10s were simple, just had to “push” the lower corner of the front bumper outward. Due to the 10″ wide wheels the 275/40/17 V710s were now hitting the lower corner of the front bumper when the wheel was turned. 275/40/17 V710s on smaller wheels don’t hit the bumper (although it’s close).

The Car will be under going some Interior and Exterior Changes over the coming year, but the rest of the car “should” stay as is as long as I don’t get Antsy or the Real Owner of the CCWs doesn’t ask for them back (thanks for letting me borrow the Wheels Rich!).

The Rest of the Important Mods on the car are pretty standard for BSP.

APS 3″ Turbo Back

APv1 ProTune by Jarrad of PDX Tuning (93 and VP110 maps) 306whp/331wtq on 110 on the JapTrix Dyno in West Palm Beach.

Whiteline Anti Sway Bars front and rear (24/26 front 20/24 rear)

Ingalls rear camber bolts

ARP Long Wheel Studs

The Street Setup:

Only difference for the street setup is the 93 Octane pump gas map and the wheels.

The wheels of choice are a set of 18×8.5 +45mm gramLight 57Maximums in White (First Set in the States installed 6/1/2006).

The tires of choice are a set of 265/35/18 Hankook RS2s.

As always at T3hClap.com we’re looking for sponsors to help us get out to more events and upgrade the car further. Any donations or sponsors don’t hesitate to shoot me an Email.

Photos:
Slideshow on abbyjons.smugmug.com

Lowering springs that limit the performance and wheel/tire selection or kidney bruising coilovers?

There is a proper middle ground to setting up an STi that is still competitive at the Autox.

Karlton has found that middle ground, the middle ground also happens to include a few sets of 9.5″ wheels!!

Karlton bought this STi in November of 2005, and after about 500 miles and its first oil change, Karlton took it to its first autocross.

Karlton planned on not modifying this car at all and just running it for fun in A Stock. (We all know how this story pans out)

His first event in the car, Karlton knew it needed a few suspension tweaks. He decided to set the car up for STU since he could keep the car relatively streetable and limit how crazy he could go with the modifications.

After going through a couple different suspension setups Karlton finally found his middle ground.

Karlton qualifies as a Wheel Whore with a nice list of wheels in his arsenal.

Autocross setup:
SSR Competitions
17×9.5 et42 (3mm spacer in the front)
Bridgestone Potenza RE-01r
245/40/17

Street/Rain setup:
Kosei K1-TS
17×9 et45
Kumho Ecsta SPT
245/40/17

Just for fun:
Enkei RP03
17×9.5 et38
Yokohama Advan Neova AD07
245/40/17

As you see here there is a pattern, 245/40/17s. Karlton is forced by the SCCA Street Tire Unlimited (STU) rule set to have tires no wider than 245, wheel width is unlimited. Exploiting the unlimited wheel width ruling, STU competitors mount their 245s on the widest wheel possible to widen the section width and improve steering response.

When it comes to 9.5″ wheels I really like the placement of the +38mm wheels.

The middle ground Karlton has chosen for his Streetable STU STI is as follows.

Suspension Setup:
Ground Control housings with Koni 8611 Double adjustable shocks
Ground Control camber plates front and rear
Eibach springs 530lb front/500 rear
Whiteline 27-29 swaybars front and rear
Camber: -3 front/-1.8 rear
1/16” toe out front and rear
Ride height: about 13.75” front and rear

Thank you Section:
Karlton would like to thank his sponsors: SpeedElement, GST Motorsports, and AutoRnD.

Any Specific setup questions can be emailed to me, any questions about Karlton’s setup feel free to comment or shoot me an email.

Below are some more photos of Karlton’s car Equipped with the 17×9.5 +38mm Enkei RP03 with 245/40/17 Yokohama Advan AD07 Tires.

It isn’t impossible, you just need to be willing to do the modifications necessary to make it work.

Perfect example of someone willing to do what it takes is Bill (Aka. IStoSTi, CarbonIS, and a few others I don’t know).

Bill contacted me asking “what would it take for me to run this?”

I informed Bill of what he would have to do. Generally when I reply to questions like these people run away or ask if I’m serious, not Bill. Bill asked for more details. Crazy guy I tell ya.

This setup he was talking about was an 18×9 +29mm Advan RS with the coveted GTR face.

To make this aggressive of a setup work on an Impreza it takes a good amount of work and very aggressive camber settings front and rear.The tire of choice for this setup was a 235/40/18, this allowed Bill to run slightly less camber and have the lower ride height he was searching for.

Even with the 235/40/18 and -2.5 rear camber it is still necessary to do modifications to the rear fenders. Bill decided to modify the rear fenders by trimming the excess fender lip away, this allows the car to maintain stock look and still gain the needed clearance.

Setting up an aggressive wheel and tire car isn’t a simple set ride height, install, align and done. Modifying the setup, for everything to fit properly is a tedious process and can take days if not weeks. If I remember correctly Bill and a local performance shop modified the fenders and did the alignment in two days. Crazy again I tell ya.

Once Bill had everything setup and got some photos taken he had started a revolution of sorts, proving that it is possible to run these kind of Low Offset wheels on stock bodied Subaru Impreza Sedans. This is beyond fitment, this is the way a low offset Subaru is supposed to look.

Bill doesn’t need wheels to do dual duty, he has plans to run a more performance oriented aggressive setup for track use in the future. Normally I’d stray away from this aggressive 18×9 +29mm setup for a car using these wheels for both street and track, due to other options being more ideal for dual duty. Although if you’re crazy enough to do it, do it. My only request is you do it right the first time.

Important Modifications:

Suspension: Tein Flex Coilovers, Rear Camber bolts

Wheels: Advan RS GTR Face 18×9 +29mm 5×114.3

Tires: Falken Azenis RT615 235/40/18

Alignment: -2.6 Front Camber, -2.5 Rear Camber

Ride Height: 12.5″ Front, 12.3″ Rear

Body Modifications: Trimmed rear inner fender lip

Here are some photos of Bill’s setup. Click for higher-res.

Bill asked me to thank a few of his Friends and Supporters for him.

Shades of Gray Tint
EDO Performance
RT Tuning
Area1320
Liquid Powder Coats
201 Motorsports

Photos by: Laura DeBolt

As always if you have specific questions about your setup or want to be featured on T3hclap.com don’t hesitate to shoot me an email.

drew@t3hclap.com

-t3h_:clap: