Tag Archives: WRX

TEIN MONO RACING Coilovers

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While we still sell plenty of our FLEX Z and MONO SPORT coilover kits, and since they fit the bill for most consumer’s needs, we feel and also see the need for more race-oriented suspension setups. To date, we still produce our SUPER RACING coilover line for those needing a setup to match more aggressive chassis and tire setups people use for road racing and the ever-so-popular Time Attack races. However, for some, there is no necessity of 2-way damping adjustability. In fact, for some consumers, having that extra adjustment (separate compression and rebound damping), might be confusing. Again, probably why we still sell plenty of FLEX Z and MONO SPORT coilover. There’s a certain simplicity to these coilovers.

But, in between a MONO SPORT or SUPER RACING coilovers is a bit of a gap. This led to our development and release of the new MONO RACING coilover line.

MONO RACING coilovers take all of the features of the MONO SPORT line- monotube construction (with our proprietary “Strong Upright Tube” setup for strut suspensions), threaded shock body (for separate spring preload and ride height adjustments, and use of our Micro Speed Valve (M.S.V.) for improved low-speed damping control. With that, we add some features of the Super Racing line, mainly items for strut type applications, such as camber/caster adjustable front upper mounts and extra camber adjustment at the lower bracket (camber washer). Along with those features, we valve the MONO RACING dampers far more aggressive and include stiffer springs, making the package a much more race oriented feel. Damping adjustment is rebound only (16-click, like our typical coilovers), and is of course compatible with our EDFC systems. Like all TEIN coilovers, we still treat the MONO RACING coilovers to our proprietary ZT and powdercoating for long-lasting durability. MONO RACING coilovers are also serviceable (rebuild and valving) and customizable.

Camber Washer for Strut Type Suspensio
TEIN developed Micro Speed Valve

Again, the setup is aimed towards consumers who done vehicle modifications that are complimentary to a track setup. Typically a very good summer tire or even R-compound will work well with this suspension package, but also other additions like small aero upgrades can take good advantage of the more aggressive damper and spring setup.

Most importantly, we wanted to bring this user-friendly race coilover kit at a reasonable price point, starting at $1800 and going up to $2220, all depending on the vehicle application (strut type or independent spring/shock type suspensions are more expensive).

Now available for the following applications:

Honda Civic Type R (FK8) *includes Error Canceller Units

Toyota 86 (Scion FRS)/Subaru BRZ

Mazda Miata (NA6C/NA8C/NB8C/NDERC)

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions VII/VIII/IX (CT9A) and X (CZ4A)

Subaru WRX/STI (GDBE/GRF/GVF/VA

and more applications to come.

Moto IQ’s Project VAF Subaru WRX

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One of the biggest things for the TEIN group this year was the introduction of our FLEX Z dampers. A new product line starting at well under $1000 (starting at $800, to be exact!), and with most all of the same features as the existing STREET FLEX dampers, we figured it would be a good hit for us! What we didn’t anticipate was how well it would be doing. Now we’re running into an inventory problem for some of the most popular applications. Please know that we’ll do our best to get our kits to you, our anxious customers!!! Thank you for your patience!!!

Anyway, what we wanted to post about was MotoIQ’s Project VA Subaru WRX. We recently supplied them with a set of our FLEX Z dampers. This vehicle’s modifications are fairly mild, with a strong emphasis in trying to maintain good driveability for the street but with weekend warrior capabilities.

VA WRX 2

This project’s aim made it a perfect candidate for our FLEX Z dampers. This recently released item has been set up to offer great handling and comfort for street use.  We wanted this exact emphasis to be shown. Along with the mods that MotoIQ has already done (Polyurethane bushings, sway bars, big brakes, larger & wider wheels and tires, and a small gain in power), the FLEX Z’s will make for great build!

VA WRX 3

For those not yet familiar with the FLEX Z line, it is essentially a STREET FLEX damper kit- full-length adjustable for separate spring preload and ride height adjustment, 16-way damping adjustable using our ADVANCE NEEDLE technology, included upper mounts for front and rear (camber adjustable for the WRX), as well as EDFC series compatible. What differentiates the FLEX Z from its big brother is that the FLEX Z uses fully sealed dampers. This makes them non-rebuildable. However, we can still service the dampers by providing customers with replacement dampers that they can purchase through authorized dealers.

Although we cannot rebuild them, customers can request custom valved FLEX Z kits or custom valved replacement dampers which TEIN Japan can manufacture for us (ETA ~8 weeks).

FLEX Z VAF

Other than that one difference between the STREET FLEX line, the FLEX Z’s have been valved to be less harsh in comparison to our previous FLEX damper lineups. We did this because we know that customers looking for this type of setup, especially one under $1k, still maintain their vehicles for road use/daily driving. Having an affordable damper kit that rides like our N1 dampers, which sounds kinda cool to some, may not sell very well for us. However, the use of our ADVANCE NEEDLE technology gives the customers a wide range of tuning possibilities for handling such various road conditions. It truly offers a night and day difference from the softest to the stiffest damping settings.

Read more on our new FLEX Z line here.

Again, thinking of what the MotoIQ guys had in mind for their VA WRX project, we feel we’ve paired them up to the kit that matches their needs.

Keep posted with MotoIQ as this project progresses!!!

*VA WRX pictures from MotoIQ

 

Hub Swappin Brackets

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Hey everyone. Ever purchase a set of TEIN full length adjustable coilovers that can be swapped onto other applications but when installing them you find that the lower bracket mount differs from that of the kit? Well, I’m here to put your mind at ease.

With the release of the Specialized Damper Program allowing the consumer create their own custom coilover kit to their specifications, the option of having just a custom lower bracket manufactured is also be available.

We always get consumers and shops inquiring about lower brackets for a hub conversion on any application ranging from the Subaru STI (from 5×100 pcd to 5×114.3 pcd knuckle) conversion to Nissan 240SX/ 300ZX rear end conversion.

 

Although we can have the lower bracket manufactured to your specifications, keep in mind that  it would be done at the consumers own discretion, as the coilover was not originally designed for the modifications. Changes to the original design can create different stresses on the damper body or components causing the damper to fail. Be sure to exercise caution.

With that said, the costs for a set of brackets can range anywhere from $100 and up each from current manufactured kits to custom brackets with desired features. For inquiries, please feel free to contact us for a quote. (562)-861-9161/ tus_sales@tein.com

 

08+ STI/ WRX ATI Gauge Cluster

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ATI has released the gauge cluster pod for the 08+ Subaru Sti and WRX models. A previous concept of the pod had been produced but never went into production. This pod mounts the same as the previous concept on the passenger side dash with a proper view of the gauges from the driver’s side.

 

 

The surface of pod has a synthetic rubber material which emulates the texture of the factory dash surface very well, and also helps protect from the suns harmful UV rays. This pod allows for the use of only 60mm (2 3/8 inch) size gauges. Optional grommets to fit 52mm (2 1/16″) gauges are available as well!

 

The gauge pod requires some modifications to allow it to mount to the dash. The pod comes with the mounting hardware and installation instructions. But, it is recommended to be installed professionally for those unsure about the doing it themselves.

 

 

The gauge pod is priced at a reasonable $149.00 MSRP and can be purchase through a TEIN Authorized Dealer near you. For a list of dealers please visit our websites Dealer List ( http://www.tein.com/dealer_list/index.html ) to find a dealer near you.

Super Pro Engine Pitch Mount for 02-07 WRX & 04-07 STI

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A very popular modification for Subaru WRX and STI owners is improving the engine/transmission rigidity by changing motor mounts, transmission mount, and the engine pitch mount( also known as an engine pitch stop or dog bone).

One of the most readily available upgrades is the Subaru Group N pieces. A few Subaru dealerships even stock these pieces.

I’m trying one mod at a time, starting with the Group N motor mounts. These mounts definitely increase NVH( Noise, Vibration, and Harshness). That lumpy boxer idle is even more pronounced at idle. To me, it’s not a big deal- I kinda like it!

I then tried out the Group N pitch mount, and although the rubber bushings are harder in durometer over the OE piece, I wasn’t so thrilled about the OE-like plastic arm stamped STi- I always thought it was a reinforced(still plastic) piece. Oh well. I’m no engineer. So if it works, it works. Initial impressions- same amount of NVH, as far as I can tell. No real change in driving feel.

Anyways, in conjunction with some other mods I have on my car, especially that massive APS Top Mount Intercooler which makes underhood clearances as tight as it possibly can be, I noticed under hard acceleration that quick shifting causes the intercooler y-pipe to hit the firewall bracket supporting the pitch arm, slightly. Not a very comforting sound.

Removal of the Intercooler is necessary to access the Pitch Mount. 2 bolts and 3 hose clamps need to be removed, as well as a few hoses from the breather assembly.

Just recently, I got my hands on Super Pro’s Aluminum/Polyurethane engine pitch stop(p/n SPF3205). Nicely finished in a blue anodize(which will sadly go unnoticed thanks to my Intercooler), this piece looks more like a con-rod. The poly bushings are also a nice snug fit into the firewall bracket and motor bracket.  Easy enough to install, save for the shoehorned intercooler as an obstruction, it’s just two bolts to loosen/tighten.  Total time with a standard intercooler should be no more than 20 minutes. For you front-mount intercooler owners, even quicker.

With the intercooler removed, the pitch mount is clearly visible.

Initial impressions- not much NVH than the Group N pitch mount, and definitely no contact with the y-pipe and firewall bracket under quick shifts, as mentioned earlier. Great! Goes to show that some small changes can make a difference.

Comparison of the Super Pro and STi pitch arm

The Super Pro mount is a snug fit. A little grease helps fit it into its bracket.

Installed.

In retrospect, starting with this piece  would’ve been a better start. I’m only guessing that this piece would’ve reduced the chances of the y-pipe interfering with the firewall bracket from the beginning. Next install is the Group N transmission mount. A bit more NVH to deal with…. yay.

Enjoy!

A staff of enthusiasts

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The TEIN USA staff is filled with automotive enthusiasts from different age groups, backgrounds and levels of interest.  Tuning philosophies, budgets and experience vary greatly but it makes for some interesting conversations. It also gives our product development section a chance to hear feedback from a wide range of opinions. Here are just a few of the staffs cars’.

Philip’s EVO 9 SE. Street/ track toy with the main goal being balance of all parts. Utilizes many parts in which TEIN USA distributes including Carbing, Defi, Takata, SuperPro and rocking Super Racing coilovers. Basically built/ tuned like a traditional shop demo car in Japan (trying something different than the normal US build).

Paul’s WRX. Custom valved TEIN FLEX with 8kg/ 5kg spring rates. Nothing crazy here but lots of bolt-on parts with total tuning in mind. Mainly a street car with an occasional track event.

Jon’s FC. A true do it yourself build including motor rebuild, tranny rebuild, paint and all the maintenance. Mono Flex dampers keep this a fun track toy while still maintaining good ride comfort for street driving.

TK’s Eclipse. Not the most popular model in the Eclipse family but purchased because this car was not offered in his home country of Japan. TK has previously owned an Integra DC2, JDM GC8, Skyline GTS-Type M, D32A, and Opel Omega. This daily driver uses Super Street dampers.

Ryan’s Civic Si 4dr. This daily driver features Super Street coilovers, Fujitsubo Legalis R exhaust, and a host of bolt-on parts. Ryan has been tuning his car on the local mountain passes and will be soon hitting the circuit for the first time.