GrimmSpeed is a well-regarded brand among automotive performance enthusiasts, particularly for its high-quality modifications targeting turbocharged engines. The company’s products are designed for off-road use only and require careful installation and tuning to ensure optimal performance and safety. This article provides detailed, step-by-step installation instructions for several GrimmSpeed components, including the Bellmouth Downpipe, 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid, and Top-Mount Intercooler (TMIC). These instructions are sourced from official GrimmSpeed manuals and technical documentation, ensuring that users have access to accurate and reliable information.
Overview of GrimmSpeed Components and Installation
GrimmSpeed offers a range of performance-enhancing products, with the Bellmouth Downpipe, Boost Control Solenoid, and TMIC being among the most popular. These components are designed to improve engine efficiency, boost control, and cooling performance, but they also require precise installation and tuning to avoid potential issues such as overboosting or engine damage.
The Bellmouth Downpipe is intended to improve exhaust flow by replacing the stock downpipe on Subaru vehicles from 2002 onward. The 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid is a key component in the boost regulation system of Mitsubishi Evolution models, allowing for more precise control over turbo pressure. Lastly, the TMIC is designed to improve intercooler efficiency by increasing airflow and reducing outlet temperatures. Each of these components must be installed with care and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Installing the GrimmSpeed Bellmouth Downpipe on 2002+ Subaru WRX/STi/LGT/FXT
The Bellmouth Downpipe is a performance part designed to enhance exhaust flow by replacing the stock downpipe. The following steps outline the installation process, which should be performed with the vehicle on a level surface and the parking brake fully engaged.
Preparation and Safety: Before beginning the installation, ensure that the vehicle is on a level surface with the parking brake engaged and wheel stops in place to prevent any movement. It is also important to allow the exhaust system to cool down to prevent burns.
Removing the Stock Downpipe: The first step in the installation is removing the stock downpipe. This involves removing the intercooler, turbo heat shield, up pipe heat shield, and the bolts connecting the downpipe to the turbo. Additionally, the O2 sensor must be removed using an O2 sensor socket.
Installation of the Bellmouth Downpipe: Once all the necessary components are removed, the Bellmouth Downpipe can be installed. It is important to note that all GrimmSpeed exhaust components are intended for off-road use only, and thus must be used in environments where emissions regulations are not a concern.
The Bellmouth Downpipe is designed to improve exhaust flow and reduce backpressure, which can lead to improved engine performance and efficiency. However, proper installation is crucial to ensure that the part functions as intended and does not cause any unintended issues.
Installing the 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid on Mitsubishi Evolution Models
The 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid is a critical component in the boost regulation system of Mitsubishi Evolution models (8, 9, and 10). This solenoid allows for more precise control over turbo pressure, which can lead to improved performance and responsiveness. The installation process varies slightly depending on the specific model of the Evolution.
For the EVO 8 and 9, the installation involves removing the factory airbox and locating the boost control solenoid on the driver side frame rail. The factory solenoid must be unbolted, and the electrical connector and vacuum lines disconnected. The GrimmSpeed bracket and solenoid are then installed using the factory bolt. Vacuum lines must be connected to the appropriate ports, with Port 3 connected to a high-pressure boost source, Port 2 to the internal wastegate actuator, and Port 1 routed back to the intake. Tuning is required for proper operation, with an approximate 30% reduction in WGDC (Wastegate Duty Cycle) being recommended.
For the EVO X, the installation process involves locating the BCS (Boost Control Solenoid) bracket just below the brake master cylinder. The electrical connectors and vacuum lines must be unplugged, and the factory solenoid bracket unbolted. The GrimmSpeed bracket and solenoid are then installed using the supplied hardware. The vacuum lines must be connected in the same manner as described for the EVO 8 and 9, with Port 3 connected to a high-pressure boost source, Port 2 to the internal wastegate actuator, and Port 1 routed back to the intake.
For models equipped with an External Wastegate (EWG), the installation process involves connecting the vacuum lines to the external wastegate. Port 3 connects to a high-pressure boost source, and Port 2 connects to the bottom port on the external wastegate. The factory restrictor pill must be removed for proper operation. Tuning is also required for the external wastegate setup, with the same approximate 30% reduction in WGDC being recommended.
Technical Considerations and Safety
The 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid is a binary device, meaning it is either energized (on) or off. When energized, the solenoid allows air to pass through, while when de-energized, it restricts airflow. This allows for precise control over the wastegate, enabling the ECU to manage boost pressure with greater accuracy and response time.
However, it is important to note that the installation and use of the 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid requires proper tuning. Using stock or off-the-shelf engine management (EM) software with the solenoid in interrupt mode can result in overboosting, which can cause significant engine damage. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that users have experience with tuning or consult a professional tuning service.
Additionally, the solenoid must not be used in any applications where its failure to operate as intended could jeopardize the safety of the operator or others. The manufacturer explicitly states that users must be aware of the risks involved and take appropriate precautions to ensure safe operation.
Installing the GrimmSpeed Top-Mount Intercooler (TMIC)
The Top-Mount Intercooler (TMIC) is designed to improve intercooler efficiency by increasing airflow and reducing outlet temperatures. The installation process for the TMIC is relatively straightforward, but it requires the use of a proper Y-pipe to ensure a secure and efficient connection.
Compatibility and Installation: The TMIC is designed to work with the stock STI Y-pipe. If the vehicle does not have a stock Y-pipe, a cast aluminum Y-pipe kit is available for purchase. This kit includes a 4-piece 5-ply silicone coupler and T-bolt clamps for each connection. The installation process involves removing the stock intercooler and replacing it with the TMIC.
Hood Scoop Splitter Considerations: The TMIC may require additional airflow to function at its best. For this reason, GrimmSpeed offers a lightweight hood scoop splitter that is optimized for the TMIC. This splitter ensures that the intercooler receives the necessary airflow to maintain low outlet temperatures, even under high-performance conditions.
The TMIC is an important component in the cooling system of a turbocharged engine. By improving airflow and reducing outlet temperatures, the TMIC helps to maintain engine efficiency and performance. However, it is important to ensure that the installation is performed correctly to avoid any potential issues such as improper airflow or connection leaks.
Tuning and Performance Considerations
All GrimmSpeed components require proper tuning to ensure optimal performance and safety. The Bellmouth Downpipe, 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid, and TMIC are all designed to enhance engine performance, but they must be tuned correctly to avoid overboosting, engine damage, or other issues.
For the 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid, tuning is particularly important. The solenoid must be configured to work with the vehicle’s ECU, and the WGDC must be adjusted to prevent overboosting. An approximate 30% reduction in WGDC is recommended, but this may vary depending on the specific vehicle and tuning parameters.
For the Bellmouth Downpipe, tuning is necessary to ensure that the exhaust system functions correctly and that the engine is able to take full advantage of the improved exhaust flow. Without proper tuning, the engine may not perform as expected, and there may be issues with emissions or engine efficiency.
For the TMIC, tuning is not as critical as it is for the other components, but it is still important to ensure that the cooling system functions correctly. The TMIC must be able to receive sufficient airflow to maintain low outlet temperatures, and the ECU must be configured to manage the cooling system effectively.
Conclusion
GrimmSpeed offers a range of high-performance components that can significantly improve the efficiency, responsiveness, and performance of turbocharged engines. However, these components must be installed and tuned correctly to ensure that they function as intended and do not cause any unintended issues. The installation process for the Bellmouth Downpipe, 3-Port Boost Control Solenoid, and TMIC requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Users should be aware of the technical considerations and safety requirements associated with these components, particularly the need for proper tuning and the potential risks of overboosting. By following the installation instructions provided in the official GrimmSpeed manuals and technical documentation, users can ensure that their modifications are safe, effective, and in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.