Samco intercooler hose kit installed today by Steve at Barsotti's Auto Care in Newcastle, CA (916) 663-3077

My car is probably a good test subject for this upgrade. 2003 US WRX Sedan 5 speed (Sedona Red, if that matters!), Prodrive axle-back oval tip exhaust, K & N drop in panel filter, Kartboy shifter (stock bushing).

Here's the results:

VERY noticeable! An unmistakable difference in boost response. Boost comes on much more aggressively. This is both low on the tach (between 3K and 4K), and very noticeable as well above 4000rpm. Boost is also significantly smoother, without some of the odd hesitation that I had before the install. What really surprised me is power above 6000rpm. This is a stock engine after all, and power drops off almost painfully after say 6000-6100rpm. With the intercooler hose kit, it now pulls very strongly to 6500-6600. BIG surprise. I was not expecting that. I expected quicker spool times, but not a gain in post peak power. Tells me all I need to know that the stock intercooler pipe is indeed restrictive above 6000rpm.

Lower boost response is part of the package as well. Stock, this car's boost came on full song in 4th and 5th at about 3100rpm or so. With simple mods I have now, I saw full boost at 2750 in 4th and 5th, with full boost as low as 2600rpm in 5th up a hill one time.

Butt dyno says 5 hp bump at the peak, but way more torque and hp at other places on the curve.

Bang for the buck here!

-Mirror

 

Me too, but its clearly better. Pretty happy with the whole thing actually.

 

He has what's called "New Mod Butt Dyno Mis-calibration"

 

Ahh.....nothing beats the internet for a having complete stranger call you a jackass.

G** S***** buddy.

 

i just put mine in last night also.. i agree with you.. much smoother and quickers response.

the change is not drastic but it is definitely noticeable

i give it two thumbs up