Im a straight newbie and I have a 02 wrx with a aftermarket 3 inch downpipe and exhaust and im thinking about upgrading my stock intercooler into a STI intercooler. My question is would the STI intercooler fit or adjustments is needed? Suggestion and opinions are welcome.

 

Welcome!

If you're running the TD-04, although an upgraded TMIC is not needed, the OEM STi TMIC will fit, but you will need either (a) the y-pipe that came with it and a longer turbo-to-y-pipe elbow or (b) modify an aftermarket silicone y-pipe to accommodate the size difference between the TD-04 WRX turbo and VF series turbos that came on STis.

 

Don't you also need a slightly longer throttle body coupler? As mentioned though, if on stock turbo, you won't benefit considerably from doing this.

 

If <1/8" bothers you. I've been using a WRX coupler.

 

So me getting the STI TMIC wont do much for my car unless i go with a bigger turbo am I right?

 

Not accounting for the bling factor, then:

 

Unless you're looking to get protuned or run a vf series, it won't do much for ya.

 

 

you will also need to adjust/slightly bend your a/c low pressure line that runs against the fire wall or the intercooler will rub a hole into the a/c line

 

Thanks guys. What would you guys suggest if want to get some engine upgrades? And also if i do want to get STI TMIC what should i do or get.

 

Since others have allready answered your questions if you do not have a Tune do that next.You have the option of a Cobb AP(It is a hand held device that allows you to swap maps/tunes at any time) or Pro Tune a dyno run to fine tweak your car to the setting you want..Or do both if you have the funds..BTW welcome

 

Welcome to i-club!