GrimmSpeed 08+ WRX/LGT Top Mount Intercooler - Any Interest?

From NASIOC:

Sorry for the silence guys, I was out of the office last week and then we were at Wicked Big Meet over the weekend. Part of the delay and lack of updates is that there's nothing particularly interesting to share/show at the moment. One of the reasons that we're taking our time and doing this all right is to avoid the backorder situation that we've had on some recent releases that have been much more successful than we could have dreamed.

 

With in-house manufacturing of very high-end parts like this, it's really not as simple as 'just make more'. We need the welding manpower, the equipment so support those hours, the space for that equipment, the space to store 500+ cores, 1000+ end tanks, the finished products and all associated accessories, packing, etc. Something like this is a MASSIVE undertaking for a small business and we've learned a lot along the way. Rule #1 is to not rush anything to market that we cannot FULLY supply and support. This will be worth the wait, 100%. For those that simply can't wait (and I do understand that sometimes you don't have a choice), I recommend that you pick up your next choice used and then sell it when ours becomes available.

 

Trust me guys, we want to release this worse than anybody and we're doing our absolute best to get them in your hands in a timely manner, but these things just can't happen overnight. We don't have overseas factories with thousands of workers at our disposal; there are ten of us.

 

Thank you for your support and patience! We had a great time meeting a bunch of you at Wicked Big Meet over the weekend and are so thankful that you're being so patient with us. Cheers!

 

Matt Beenen

Engineering

Are you only going to offer a 2 week window with a 50 person limit like how the STI GB started?

There will be a two week window for opting in and a two week window to send payment, no limit.

 

Matt Beenen

Engineering

Is there a more updated projected release date yet?

Unfortunately, nothing accurate. We're having some delays with the casting of the end tanks, but are working through them. I'll update you when I can be confident with a date. Still hoping for a summer release!

 

Matt Beenen

Engineering

How much longer? I may need to order a process west instead

I'm thinking the same thing. Hoping to get tuned late July. Is there anywhere to find the PW splitters for the legacy?

I'm thinking the same thing. Hoping to get tuned late July. Is there anywhere to find the PW splitters for the legacy?

I don't think so, I have one from a WRX that I had to modify. It's functional, but the hood sits very tightly against it.

I finally got my hands on a GS catted downpipe. I have curbed half of my desires for now...

I'm glad to see GrimmSpeed taking their time to do this right because I'm tired of mass-produced, poorly-designed crap.

Props to Matt for coming to the community and telling it how it is and what is going on vs feeding ppl bs like alot of companies out there will. Can't wait to see the final product

Maybe the group buy can throw in a hat too?

That's how I got my fancy GS hat and bottle opener key chain - from the DP GB since I waited for the last batch.

The latest from NASIOC...

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Originally Posted by WRX YNZ http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

I am definitely waiting for this TMIC. You cant rush perfection. I'd rather have a part that fits and functions properly for years instead of getting a TMIC that's a load of crud......... that would probably end up getting swapped out for this GS one anyway, lol.

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Originally Posted by PANGES http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

Yeah. I've received plenty of rushed, low quality garbage before and would much rather wait and receive a quality product.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Itsorgazmo http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

I do hope a splitter will end up being included in the kit. I understand the need for diff figments with other models but this is primarily for 08 up WRX so my .02 is that those buyers should receive one and not have to pay extra for it...unless your tmic is going to also be crazy cheap for us gb peeps

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Originally Posted by BarmanBean http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

That's awfully selfish, lol.

In terms of sheer numbers and economies of scale, it's likely that a splitter for WRX's could be produced in the cheapest way, since that pool of users is the largest, followed by LGT/OBXT users. I think it's actually reasonable that an LGT/OBXT splitter could in fact cost a bit more, but to say that all of the LGT/OBXT users should basically soak up the cost of WRX splitters entirely just doesn't make much sense to me.

Also, the idea that this much time, effort, materials, etc could go into producing an intercooler and then not providing a splitter to maximize available air flow as well just wouldn't make sense. I can't see the folks at GS doing that at all. This isn't shaping up to be an 80% solution like some other alternatives.

Keep up the good work GS. I'm anxious to have something new available and looking forward to what you come up with.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Itsorgazmo http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

Here's hoping. But one of GS posts listed the splitter as a separate option unless I read it wrong. Just getting crazy anxiety waiting on this thing. The proto t looks B E A utiful guys

Quote:

Originally Posted by WRX YNZ http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

Yeah but this TMIC is for multiple models and turbo fitments (like the sti turbo), so it makes sense that they would piece it out instead of making a full kit.

Quote:

Originally Posted by makikogi http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

I don't think that GS would deviate that far from the way they sold their previous TMIC. They sold the splitters separately with that also. It would be pretty messed up that they would make the 02-07 WRX owners pay for splitter but included with the 08+ WRX models

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Originally Posted by 08wrxdiscohatch http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif

I just want this in my hands. I'm going crazy! !!!!!!

Hey guys, I don't have much in the way updates at the moment but I wanted to address this quickly.

First of all, if you want a splitter with your TMIC, you will pay for it, whether it's included in the kit or not. Splitters are very model-specific and including one in the kit would mean that a good number of people are paying for a splitter that they don't need (wrong fitment). If the splitters aren't included in the TMIC kit, their cost will be broken out and the kit cost will be lower - see how that works?

The second reason is to help make the purchase more affordable for you guys. Instead of needing to buy the splitter right away, you may be able to buy the TMIC kit separately and then buy the splitter when your budget allows. Of course, the splitter will help you make the most of your TMIC, but it's not required for the intercooler to function.

Working hard during this short week and will update you guys if we make any exciting progress!

Matt Beenen

Engineering

And one more...

How will this attach to the car?

This intercooler will attach to your car in a few ways. There will be two brackets welded to the actual intercooler that will attach to two custom brackets on your car (we'll be providing those). Both will use rubber bushings to isolate your motor, turbo and welded intercooler from the stress and vibration included as you beat on your car. More obviously, the TMIC will also use silicone hoses to attach to both the throttle body and intercooler. There will be an adapter that you'll bolt to your turbo for installation. Again, this goes a long way in keep your car and intercooler from rattling itself apart.

How easy or difficult is installation/removal?

We'll post a detailed installation guide and video, but installation is relatively simple. We've installed a TON of intercoolers and while most manufacturers are content with installation being possible, we hold installation as a key part of the design process. Don't forget, we're Subaru guys too and we know these things have to come on and off all the time without breaking anybody's back or vehicle.

Will it utilize the stock brackets? Or are you providing your own brackets?

Answered above. We'll be providing our own brackets. We could've made adapters for the stock brackets, but those are ugly and a shortcut. We don't like ugly shortcuts.

Can install/removal be completed "from above" only, or does it require getting under the car?

You'll be just fine installing this without getting under your car.

Can the transmission dipstick be accessed while the intercooler is installed?

I'll have to verify this when I'm out in the shop later, but we've stayed way clear of the dipstick, so while it may be tight, you'll probably be able to access it without issue. This is something that was strategically left as 'not critical'. Since installation will be such a breeze, removing your intercooler to access your trans fluid isn't a big deal.

What kind of couplers will be provided? (Ie, how many layers of silicone) and will the couplers be of sufficient length/size to be able to use t-bolt clamps?

We'll be providing silicone couplers with our standard 4 and 5-ply construction (depending on hose diameter). Any thinner and we run into concerns regarding the strength and durability of the couplers. Any thicker and they become unnecessarily difficult install. Our prototypes have indicated that we'll be able to use T-bolts in most places. Some locations are just too tight for a t-bolt clamp, though, and make installation very, very difficult. For those locations, if we should need to provide worm gear clamps, there's no need to worry. We use and supply only the very best worm gear clamps. The stuff that comes with 'other' kits is junk by comparison.

Quote:

I ask all this because I'm pretty much fed up with how much a pain in the ass my Spearco is to install and remove. Doing almost anything in the engine bay requires removing it because it's so big. The performance of it is great, but re-installing it is a huge pain and requires getting under the car.

Not surprisingly, this is the same feedback that we heard regarding their 02-07 TMIC. They're a perfect example of a manufacturer like I mentioned above. As long as it fits, there's no concern for how difficult the installation is. Do you know if their engineers and designers are Subaru enthusiasts? My point is, don't sweat the details too much. The reason this is taking so long is that we're making the perfect intercooler for this application. It's not easy and it's not quick, but I genuinely believe that if anybody can do it, it's us.

Ok, I'm done boasting. That felt dirty. Yuck.

Matt Beenen

Engineering

The only thing I have seen is "still shooting for a summer release." They are unwilling to give an eta at this point.

A couple people hassled them about it "It's the 4th of July so many great sales." Their response was - "buy from the sales then we are taking our time."

I think what probably happened is the amount of response to the interest sign-up shocked them and they are trying to actually have enough stock on hand to ship out once the group-buy goes live.

Anyone have any thoughts on going to a TMIC on a Stage 2 set-up? is it worth it?

The only thing I have seen is "still shooting for a summer release." They are unwilling to give an eta at this point.

 

A couple people hassled them about it "It's the 4th of July so many great sales." Their response was - "buy from the sales then we are taking our time."

 

I think what probably happened is the amount of response to the interest sign-up shocked them and they are trying to actually have enough stock on hand to ship out once the group-buy goes live.

 

Anyone have any thoughts on going to a TMIC on a Stage 2 set-up? is it worth it?

I can understand that, the problem is all those that showed interest may not purchase. Look at the group buy for he Venair hoses M.Sprank setup...

As far as TMIC with a stage 2, do you mean aftermarket bigger TMIC or FMIC? It really depends on several factors. an aftermarer IC will "typically" allow you to run higher PSI and are more efficient at avoding heat soak. Just be aware, you can buy a decent front mount for less than you can some of the aftermarket top mounts. It all depends on how much you want to work, obvisouly a top mount is much easier to install than a front mount.

I can understand that, the problem is all those that showed interest may not purchase. Look at the group buy for he Venair hoses M.Sprank setup...

 

As far as TMIC with a stage 2, do you mean aftermarket bigger TMIC or FMIC? It really depends on several factors. an aftermarer IC will "typically" allow you to run higher PSI and are more efficient at avoding heat soak. Just be aware, you can buy a decent front mount for less than you can some of the aftermarket top mounts. It all depends on how much you want to work, obvisouly a top mount is much easier to install than a front mount.

I like the idea of staying with a TMIC - I like the stock (ish) look + the ease of installation.

Being in CA - I have no desire to change a FMIC out for a TMIC every two years.

I have had a hard time finding stage two comparisons of TMIC on stage 2. PDX tuning seemed to have one which showed very modest gains.

Grimmspeed shows 35 whp and 37ftlb on a vf39 on their current intercooler - which seems really good (not sure how that would translate over to a VF46 though). http://www.grimmspeed.com/top-mount-intercooler-subaru/

23 pages for a product not yet in existence. I must hand it to GS. They deff have the markets "ear".

Now, send me a pre-production unit so we can test it on the Mustang.

It just occurred time that I will need to set up another appointment with Dave / Cryotune to update it once I get this. With a core that large, the flow characteristics should be alot of fun. This would have to be good for another 10 whp over a Perrin style TMIC.

Sent from my Lumia Icon

I like the idea of staying with a TMIC - I like the stock (ish) look + the ease of installation.

 

 

 

 

 

Being in CA - I have no desire to change a FMIC out for a TMIC every two years.

 

 

 

 

 

I have had a hard time finding stage two comparisons of TMIC on stage 2. PDX tuning seemed to have one which showed very modest gains.

 

 

 

 

 

Grimmspeed shows 35 whp and 37ftlb on a vf39 on their current intercooler - which seems really good (not sure how that would translate over to a VF46 though). http://www.grimmspeed.com/top-mount-intercooler-subaru/

Last time I checked, a Perrin style TMIC is good for around 20 whp when tuned on a VF40/46. I can't wait to see what this does with the HTA68. It should also allow for more turbo options for those of us who want a clean TMIC with adapter. If so, I WILL put a stock location Garrett on order.

Which compressor housing did you go with? I also have a HTA68 and with supporting mods, I'm curious to see what numbers I'll be able to put down on 93

It's the BNR VF-40 hybrid. Currently have a peak of around 348 AWHP on E85. This is using a Perrin style TMIC.