ScoobyNet.com - Subaru Enthusiast Forum

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jolly Green Monster

the reason they didn't refit the heat shield is because the new downpipe is fatter and the heat shield then doesn't fit. You can cut it to go over the downpipe but easier to run without.

Sounds like Cotswold actually know nothing other than standard cars and point the finger at the non-standard exhaust. I have run for 40k with no heatshield to no effect and the 30k before that with and it made no difference to the clutch and brake fluid or oil consumption.
This will not be your occasional gear change problem cause.

oil useage has nothing to do with the downpipe..............

Find it hard to believe that subaru just fitted a heatshield for the sake of it. In my experience, a hot engine uses more oil. Rising temps will also effect transmission and brake fluid levels, the latter being directly above the downpipe!!! This is why oils have ratings ie. 10w40 or 15w50. It gives both the low and high range at which the oil is effective. Above or below these and the oil cant lubricate as it is supposed to. ( Oil molecules start to break up). I would definatly recommend heat shielding of some sort. Remember, a cool engine is a happy engine!!!