Taken from nasoic forums......

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AVCS and Variable Valve Lift

The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) in the Outback 3.0R now includes Variable Valve Lift, to increase engine power and torque output while at the same time gaining improvements in fuel consumption, exhaust emissions and idling stability.

By controlling the intake valve timing and lift to suit the engine load and speed conditions, AVCS optimises the engine volumetric efficiency and combustion process. Active variable valve timing is achieved by rotating the intake camshaft relative to the camshaft sprocket, within a maximum range of 50 crankshaft degrees.

Variable lift is achieved through the use of two different sets of cam profiles - low and high lift cams.

The Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates the optimum valve timing and lift, based on input signals from the airflow sensor, engine coolant temperature sensor, throttle position sensor and camshaft position sensors.

The ECM then generates a signal to an Oil Control Valve (OCV) positioned at each intake camshaft sprocket. This controls engine oil pressure, which is supplied to advance and retard chambers within the AVCS actuator.

Similarly, the ECM controls Variable Valve Lift. This is via a solenoid valve, which supplies oil pressure to a switchable tappet that alternates between the low and high cam lobes, depending on engine load and speed conditions.

In simple terms, the engine runs at low lift below 2,000 rpm, then switches between low and high between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, depending upon load.

Above 4,000 rpm, valve lift is high, irrespective of engine load.

Valve timing is continuously and infinitely variable within the 50 crank degree range. It is controlled according to engine speed and load conditions.

Computer mapping is programmed for optimum valve timing, producing stable idling, improved fuel consumption and low emissions in the medium speed range, and maximum power at high engine speed and load.

Exhaust

The exhaust system on the 3.0R engine features equal length header pipes for improved exhaust efficiency. This creates a sporty and light revving new Subaru Boxer engine sound.

Exhaust gas extraction is improved through use of the independent exhaust pipes for each cylinder. The length of pipes to the joint collection point has been increased by 300 mm, improving exhaust gas flow efficiency.

The exhaust pipes are doubled skinned, with an air gap to maintain gas temperature for more rapid activation of the catalyst. This improves exhaust gas emissions, particularly during the warm-up phase


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sounds good to me, anyone tried new cams, or messing W the settings? id imagine the results would be similar to a VTEC controller in a honda motor.....