| JSC Speed Project 02 WRX: GT Spec Header with Uppipe |
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| Installing the GT Spec headers on my 02 WRX was not as hard as I though it would be- a couple of snags here and there but all around not too bad. The process takes time and is best done with two people. Supporting the weight of the stock headers and brand new wrapped GT Spec headers is very hard with just one pair of hands so again this is a two person job. The correct tools are also a big help when it comes to doing this install- long socket wrench extenders are key as well as something to get the sensor out of the header when you get to that step. The long sockets are for reaching the manifold bolts and also the hard to reach uppipe bolts are a breeze with the extension. The pictures show the stock manifold on the car and the new GT Spec manifold as well. The difference in weight alone between these two is huge- the stock headers look heavy and are heavy. I also included a picture of the car without the headers on it- it was a task to take them off so i though it deserved a spot on this page. The hard part is taking the uppipe and headers off- once that is done putting the new ones on is a snap. | |
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| Wrapping the header was not a quick job to say the least- I made the mistake of buying 1 roll of 1 inch thermo tec header wrap when I should have got 2 of the 2 inch rolls. The 1 inch wrap is very difficult to work with- you need to overlap the wrap so it takes a lot of wrap and patience when using 1 inch wrap. The snap straps are also a life saver when wrapping as well- once you have a section done that is perfect you can snap if off and not worry about it. You can see a picture of the header and uppipe wrapped- after I took the picture I sprayed it with the high temp paint to preserve the wrap. The wrap needs to be wet when it is installed so give yourself plenty of time to let it dry- the paint you spray on dries very quick. The GT Spec uppipe has a spot for the stock EGT sensor to be placed back into the system- I decided against it. I have heard such good things about the Perrin uppipe and how it comes with a little EGT sensor bypass to get rid of any check engine lights so I plugged up that bung and got the sensor. It makes sense to do this since the frail EGT sensor is only interrupting the flow of my uppipe and also has the potential of shooting through my turbo. When I am ready I will tap the header and install the Defi EGT gauge. | |
| The gains in power from this upgrade are enormous. I was shocked how much faster the car was with this upgrade- I suggest these headers to anyone with a WRX. I had a boost controller on the car when I had my catted uppipe so when I installed this it allowed me to run more boost without having to worry about sending little pieces of my cat into the turbo. Again anyone with a WRX would be very happy with this upgrade- the difference in power is huge. |