Timmah

I have a 2002 Version 8 WRX. I first replaced the TD04HL to a TD05-16G - it wasn't a straight swap. The car was also retuned and it made a lazy 175kw. Lazy. It was not a great experience. When on boost, it felt OK. Off boost, it sucked. Avoid. I replaced the TD05 with a VF30, retuned, 196kw - a WAY more responsive car. I'm so happy with it. I've also upgraded from the WRX Blue injectors to STi Pink injectors, a STI manifold, that does not have the TGV valves, STi intercooler and a decatted factoy downpipe. I believe I'm getting limited by the flow of the WRX heads, but I'm not chasing power Also - I avg 11l per 100k daily driving and about 9.8l per 100k on the open road.

Talk to Dave @ BrakeTech, I've been using Dixzel pads and they're great! Otherwise @gotasuby can help. Good pads will come at a cost, whether it's noise, brake dust or poor cold performance. It does depend on your driving style/goals. You wouldn't want to run a race orientated pad if you're just a bit of a quick street driver.

GOT IT! Borrows a camera that's on a 5m long cable. Now I can't get the OE heatshield back on.. fml.

Went to swap the factory turbo headshield for a random one I was given for Christmas. Didn't fit, plus one of my earbuds fell into the engine bay. Spent 3 hours trying to locate it, gave up, Sulked. I don't think my Subaru wants any lovin' or I'm cursed for working on cars.

When my seat belts were squeaking, I cut those ribs out. Didn't see any wax coating on them. Good work!

It's Duplicolor glossy, and yeah I did go a bit ham and the coats are too thick, but looks OK for a first timer. For the Subaru writing, you're pretty dead on the money, but I will use silver paint

Gave painting one of my calipers a crack, photo makes it look OK

IMG_8942 by Tim Bowman, on Flickr

I used: 22433AA551 https://partsouq.com/en/search/all?q=22433AA551

Take photos, lots of photos of your dash and pillar trim prior, just to be safe.

Can someone ELI5? Regardless of turbo size, get/make the biggest downpipe you can?

Interesting, my 2002 WRX has "baby blue" injectors which around 440cc

Genuine Version 8 STI scoop. Got that off Partsouq for like $150.

Reminds me of the fibreglass stuff that started coming out of my muffler when it collapsed.

Get in touch with the guys at SAS or M45 Auto, they'll be able to help