covertrussian Posted April 25, 2014 Share Posted April 25, 2014 (edited) 2005-06 Legacy GT's have a catalytic converter inside the up pipe before the turbo, replacing gets you ~10whp and might save your turbo. I think Subaru realized this too and in 07 LGT's came with a catless same as STI up pipe, instead they introduced an air pump to help the emissions. GrimmSpeed did some awesome CFM testing of different up pipes. Catted up pipes flow 165 CFM, you can gut the stock one, very involved process and you run the risk left over material going into your turbo, airflow does improve by 50 CFM (216 total), which is still worse then OEM catless uppipe (at 245 CFM). GrimmSpeed's uppipe did 293 CFM, which is almost double the airflow of stock. Now Grimm's up pipe does have a flex pipe, which IMO are not needed and add turbulence, that plus the price is why I went with the Invidia uppipe. Up pipe is install is not hard, but is also not easy as the downpipe install. It's just a very involved process where you have to remove the headers and the downpipe. Gain access to the turbo and downpipe. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256715&stc=1&d=1507959986 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256716&stc=1&d=1507959986 Remove the EGT sensor if you can, it will help you more easily pull out the up pipe. Mine was stuck thus I had to remove the uppipe as is, it was still doable, just bent the sensor. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256717&stc=1&d=1507959986 Mine was so stuck I couldn't get it off even with MAP heat while it was off the car. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256726&d=1507960024 Downpipe has a bolt that holds it under the car, but there is also a little bracket that catches it. This was a pain to work with, I ended up cutting the lip off so that I can push down the downpipe more. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256718&stc=1&d=1507960261 Remove the downpipe bolts. There is one downpipe bolt (one on the intercooler side) which was nearly impossible to break loose, just not enough room for a breaker bar and a wrench cuts your hands. Use a screw driver to force the downpipe off the turbo. This all is much easier if you just remove the downpipe all together and replace it with a new one. I don't know why Subaru thought it is a great idea to put two bolts right under the downpipe. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256719&stc=1&d=1507959986 Next is removing the header, first you need to drop the diaper and start removing the super rusty heat shields, to gain access to the nuts on the heads. Unplug and unhook the O2 sensor from the engine! O2 sensors are very sensitive on these cars, I damaged mine by leaving the exhaust manifold hang on the O2 sensor wires! http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256720&stc=1&d=1507959986 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256721&stc=1&d=1507959986 Don't forget to unbolt the up pipe from the header too. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256722&stc=1&d=1507959986 Up Pipe removed: http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256723&stc=1&d=1507959986 Grab it and pull it out http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256724&stc=1&d=1507959986 Invidia vs OEM catted up pipe header end: http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256725&stc=1&d=1507959986 OEM LGT uppipe entry is about 40mm http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256728&stc=1&d=1507959986 STI Uppipe is not much abetter at about 43mm http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256729&stc=1&d=1507959986 It should be well over 50mm to not be a flow wall, this is the exact reason why I like the Invidia Uppipe. 2016 Edit: I recently discovered that OEM gaskets are much bigger then the ID of the uppipe, this is why the black ring is there, it's not from stock up pipe being that much smaller then the head exit. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256727&stc=1&d=1507959986 Edited October 14, 2017 by covertrussian Picture Reupload 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted April 25, 2014 Author Share Posted April 25, 2014 (edited) Invidia vs OEM catted turbo end: http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256730&stc=1&d=1507961159 Invidia has smooth transitions inside the pipe, it does also have not an ideal taper on header end. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256733&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256734&stc=1&d=1507961159 Compare that to the OEM uppipe, it's like it was purposefully designed to suck and reduce power. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256735&stc=1&d=1507961159 Turbo end shows the cat and EGT, notice how poor the transitions are. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256736&stc=1&d=1507961159 Invidia uppie has a bung for the OEM EGT, but oem EGT is meant for checking the health of the cat only, it's too far away to give accurate EGT, plus it can break and kill your turbo and finally I'm hearing they burn up faster without the cat. You will need a hard to find M12x1.25 bolt, parts stores do sell drain plugs in that size for around $5. I was able to find a plain bolt at local hardware store and cut it to fit. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256731&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256732&stc=1&d=1507961159 Gaskets, now is the time to replace those 10 year old gaskets... http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256737&stc=1&d=1507961159 Getting the uppipe was not hard, but trying to hold it and bolt a bolt up did get tricky, not enough hand room. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256738&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256740&stc=1&d=1507961159 I personally tightened the the turbo bolts before getting the header attached, if you keep them loose it might make it slightly easier to get the header installed. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256739&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256745&stc=1&d=1507961159 Get new gaskets on the header, and bolt everything up. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256741&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256742&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256743&stc=1&d=1507961159 http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256744&stc=1&d=1507961159 Now I didn't realize this until I started looking for exhaust leaks do to a whiny O2 sensor code. Apparently I put the second gasket ontop of the stock one, fitment is perfect and I see no leaks, thus I think this up pipe might actually be a little short, if it prevents cracks I'm all up for it too! http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256748&stc=1&d=1507961159 All of this took about 4 hours, rusty parts and stuck bolts is the main reason for why it took so long. I'll do some Virtual Dyno runs in the next few days and will see how it did powerwise, also will see if MPG improves. Results Finally did a virtual dyno, I rest the ECU for both runs, and drove the car until IAM hit 1.0 that way timing would be identical for both runs. Waited for another warm day in November and did another run, compensating for temperature, pressure and fuel/toolbox weight. 7whp/10wtq peak gains! http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256749&stc=1&d=1507961159 Do notice the AFR dip, this is a stock sensor thus it only reads to 11.1 and even then it's not accurate. I'll have my MTX-L hooked up after I get rid of the P11. Also please note that this is not necessarily the best road for peak WHP (slight up hill), but it's very easy for me to do repeat runs on this specific road. On a straighter road the car is making 213whp. CEL Fixing Removing the EGT sensor will cause a CEL, thus you have to either reflash the ecu with codes off (best method), or use a resistor patch (will work, but I've had some issues after some time). Disabling the CEL's through reflash Disabled these codes in your tune: P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold P0545 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low P0546 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High P1301 - Misfire Detected (High Temperature Exhaust Gas) P1312 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Malfunction P1544 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Too High Resistor I highly suggest using the reflash route, resistor patch for me would throw intermittent CEL's and cause cruise control to fail. Since I have re flashed the ECU with resistor disabling CEL's, I've never had this issue happen to me. Get a 2.2-kohm 1/2-watt Resistor (Radioshack # 2711121), this resistor makes the ECU think the EGT is always at 1292 *F. http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256746&stc=1&d=1507961159 Tape it off so it doesn't fall out http://legacygt.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=256747&stc=1&d=1507961159 Edited October 14, 2017 by covertrussian 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
umirinaesthetics Posted May 3, 2014 Share Posted May 3, 2014 excellent write up! i have a catless sti uppipe sitting around waiting to install it, just debating what i should do tune wise, alot of mixed opinions on whether a tune is necessary or not. what is necessary for the virtual dyno? and what kind of tune are you running, still stock? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted May 6, 2014 Author Share Posted May 6, 2014 Tune is not a must, but I would at least get rid of the Closed to Open Loop delay so that it's not as lean going into boost. 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BoozeRS05 Posted May 6, 2014 Share Posted May 6, 2014 Valve cover gasket, leak much! EB's Subaru journal - 2005 LegacyGT Wagon & 2014 Forester FB25 (2008 specB - RIP) IG@legacygtliving Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted May 6, 2014 Author Share Posted May 6, 2014 Dreading the day of having to replace them might wait till I have to pull the block anyway, or the turbo... 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BoozeRS05 Posted May 6, 2014 Share Posted May 6, 2014 (edited) I don't blame you, I had a shop do my plugs and valve cover gaskets last fall. Although, many claim it's not difficult. It's worth mentioning, bc when replacing/removing the OEM UP those bulky heat shields can ding the half moon gasket or valve cover gaskets, and cause the valve covers to leak even more than they are already prone to do. Be gentle when removing and replacing the UP, don't just yank and pull. Edited May 6, 2014 by BoozeRS05 EB's Subaru journal - 2005 LegacyGT Wagon & 2014 Forester FB25 (2008 specB - RIP) IG@legacygtliving Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peteyslegacy Posted May 7, 2014 Share Posted May 7, 2014 Thanks so much for the write up! I am in the process of replacing my UP and DP (and other things) with Invidia catless replacements. So your write up came at an awesome time haha. TTB Motorsports Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Max Capacity Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Just found this, yet another great post by covertrussian. Looks like you didn't use PB Blaster or anti-seize compound. 305,600miles 5/2012 ej257 short block, 8/2011 installed VF52 turbo, @20.8psi, 280whp, 300ftlbs. (SOLD). CHECK your oil, these cars use it. Engine Build - Click Here Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted June 18, 2014 Author Share Posted June 18, 2014 Looks like you didn't use PB Blaster or anti-seize compound. My Russian bear arms have enough torque in them not to need to. 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jhawk222 Posted November 17, 2014 Share Posted November 17, 2014 Great write up! Thanks Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 18, 2015 Share Posted March 18, 2015 So covertrussian, you did not have to loosen the engine mounts to pull the oem up pipe from the engine bay? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 18, 2015 Author Share Posted March 18, 2015 So covertrussian, you did not have to loosen the engine mounts to pull the oem up pipe from the engine bay? On the Legacy didn't have to, the painful part was EGT sensor that was stuck. But on the Forester XT definitely had lift the engine up. 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 18, 2015 Share Posted March 18, 2015 mmmmh. I have an outback XT. I hope I don't have to.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 18, 2015 Author Share Posted March 18, 2015 You should be fine, my motor mount bolts are starting to strip (probably from previous owner). Thus I hope to never have to loosen mine! 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 18, 2015 Share Posted March 18, 2015 I wonder why you had to on the FXT though. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 18, 2015 Author Share Posted March 18, 2015 Much smaller engine bay (narrower). It's a ton easier for me to do spark plugs on the Legacy then on the Forester. 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 18, 2015 Share Posted March 18, 2015 Interesting. I did not know that. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 18, 2015 Author Share Posted March 18, 2015 On the Legacy I can do spark plugs with just removing the stock airbox. On Forester XT I have to remove the battery and intake. 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ControlFreak Posted March 26, 2015 Share Posted March 26, 2015 On the Legacy I can do spark plugs with just removing the stock airbox. On Forester XT I have to remove the battery and intake. I don't know how you managed to replace the plugs like that, you must be a ninja! I removed my intake and battery, then jacked the engine up so I could get socket and extension on each plug without hitting the frame rails. Once I committed to lifting the engine though, it was a relatively easy 30min job. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 26, 2015 Share Posted March 26, 2015 You'd have to use a short extension. It usually works. I just did it on Monday. But yeah, it is a pain for sure.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 26, 2015 Author Share Posted March 26, 2015 It's no where near as easy as my inline 4 Nissan, but still not that hard, heck VQ35DE Altima's and Maxima's require you to remove the intake manifold to get to last 3 spark plugs. I was able to do a compression test on all 4 cylinders on the legacy, it wasn't easy or fun (hot engine is hot), but doable. http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t188/covertrussian/Cars/05%20LGT/Engine/Sparkplugs/LGTSparkplug_006.jpg~original 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 26, 2015 Share Posted March 26, 2015 ^ take off the intake manifold? Are you kidding me?? What the.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
covertrussian Posted March 26, 2015 Author Share Posted March 26, 2015 ^ take off the intake manifold? Are you kidding me?? What the.. It's nuts, check it out here. I was debating between buying a Legacy GT or an Altima SE-R, and surprisingly Legacy GT is actually easier to work on in the engine bay 05 LGT 16G 14psi 290whp/30mpg (SOLD) 12 OBP Stock 130whp/27mpg@87 Oct 00 G20t GT28r 10psi 250whp/36mpg 22 Ascent STOCK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xt2005bonbon Posted March 26, 2015 Share Posted March 26, 2015 Horrible. Just horrible. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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