Hi there, I have a 1994 WRX, and thinking of upgrading my intercooler, I've seen some second hand v3 sti intercoolers for not much money, what pros would come of upgrading my standard WRX one for the STI, and how easy is it to do straight swap over?

Thanks!

 

Better off going for a later model TMIC (STI5/6) and it's not s straight swap over.

With the later model tmic you will most probably have to modify the outlet to throttle body by shortening it, alloy pipes under neath cutting and welding, adaptor mounting brackets, dump valve position probably moving and blank off the mounting, inlet hoses for turbo to tmic/dump valve.

Looks like you'll have to modify the V3 i/c as well http://www.japperformanceparts.co.uk...ils.asp?ID=152 as the recirc valve hole is on the other side of it

 

I'm in the process of fitting a STI3 on mine. The STI3/4 have an alloy elbow that has to be removed and welded up. The STI5/6 need a plate making to seal the dump valve flange. I think this is the only difference.
Use this link for a great guide.
https://www.scoobynet.com/projects-4...-my95-wrx.html

 

Not a straight swap, but also not too much of a hassle to do. You will see more benefits if you also modify the splitter and scoop.

You could always fit the STI8 if you really wanted to...

 

Version 3 in my 1995 STi Type RA:-

 

Only a small picture but looks neat.

I have an STi 3 TMIC with the Y and red connecting rubber hose plus air charge temperature, sender and guage for not a lot of money if you are interested.
harveysmith1@btopenworld.com

 

Harvey... What does the STi 3 TMIC max out at. Im currently wanting to get to between 330 and 350 bhp from an STi 2. Is the best option still toget a front mount?

 

In that case the STi 3 TMIC for you would be a waste of money and effort.
With the appropriate under tray it will be an improvement on the slanted TMIC on the ver 1 and 2 cars. However, from my experience, it will be struggling beyond 300 bhp just as an STi 5 or 6 will struggle at that type of power level.
I have fitted an STi 8 TMIC to an STi 3 and that was a far bigger, harder and time consuming exercise than I initially envisaged and cost more than a new Hybrid FMIC would have cost and for less effective performance.
As a result of my experience, I would go for an efficient tube and fin FMIC every time as this is a better performance option and more cost effective.
Drop me an e-mail or PM if you want more info.