WRX gearbox upgrade
 

Hi All,

I have recently purchased a GB270 Wagon no17. Car is going in to Subaru4u on monday for a VF35 install and Ecutek remap. I am not sure what BHP I am expecting but 280-300BHP would be a nice achievement. My car has done 52000 miles and has a FSSH.

One of the things that is causing me concern is the standard 5 speed gearbox. I have read some horror stories about the 5 speed gearbox not being of the best quality and just wondered if there was a way to make the gearbox more robust without throwing stupid money at a 6 speed conversion.

List of mods being done during VF35 install.

Cosworth panel filter
NGK iridium plug install.
3 port solenoid
Walbro fuel pump
Ecutek remap
Centre section straight through pipe

Car is used as my daily drive so realibilty is key for me. I am sure many will tell me I should keep it standard then. Good point however I just fancied something a little quicker. Yes I know the STI would of been better but I really do love the rarerity of the GB270 Wagon.

Any suggestions on the gearbox would be greatly appreciated.

BR
Dale

you should get over 300bhp easily, std turbos have been known to do 290bhp+. the vf35 will do 340bhp+ with correct supporting mods.

the std 5 speed will cope with 340bhp, then it's just down to luck. but it's the torque that causes problems. a mate is running 340bhp 370lb/ft and he hasn't had a problem.

one main consideration is - mechanical sympathy
a car with 320bhp that launches from a standing start often probably won't last long, but a car with 350bhp that sets off fast (but not silly) should last longer.

if you want to upgrade the 5 speed box, you can get replacement PPG cogs. cost will be about £1800 though

Thanks for the reply mate. I am not the type for thrashing cars around and certainly would'nt see myself launching the car at every set of traffic lights. I generally only put my foot down in 2nd and 3rd gear so figure myself as being some what kind on the gearbox.

Thanks, does that price include the labour costs as well?

Im running over 450bhp in my wrx with. My car has a hammering everytime i use it BUT never launched. Just a quick start. The box has never missed a beat.

Its pot luck really it all depends on previous wear and tear, and how you treat it.

I think the gearbox already fitted to your GB 270 will be fine, it's just the earlier classics had had sh1te gearboxes..

The hawk gearbox is the best of the 5 speeds. I would only worry about it if it goes bang

I have had no probs with mine 350 lbs / ft torque

What's the spec of your car? :wonder:

Thanks all, much appreciated

Bugeye wrx with supporting mods.