Intercooler upgrades

[11blackwrx]

Hello all, hoping to find some info on intercoolers for my 2011 WRX. I was thinking of upgrading to a PW TMIC but am now wondering if it is worth it. There are other good TMIC's out there so wondering if any can compare with it that are cheaper or if you get what you are paying for. Im also considering going FMIC but not 100% sure, price is playing a large role in that. I also read that the STI TMIC is close to the same flow as a PW TMIC, so im wondering what it takes to swap that into a 2011 WRX.

[MainFrame]

This topic is currently being discussed here: looking for real dyno numbers with Perrin vs. PW TMIC.


As far as FMIC, I wouldn't even begin to consider it unless you're going to run a turbo larger than a 20g. Even with a 30r it's debatable, depending on what the car is going to be used for.

[11blackwrx]

thanks for the info. ive been reading on that post but trying not to thread jack too much lol

[Axex]

I can't offer much advice from experience, only my own research. I think you should pick the intercooler to match your turbo needs though. You don't want one too small or too big. So, are you planning on sticking with the stock turbo, or upgrading?

[Heide264]

Hello all, hoping to find some info on intercoolers for my 2011 WRX. I was thinking of upgrading to a PW TMIC but am now wondering if it is worth it. There are other good TMIC's out there so wondering if any can compare with it that are cheaper or if you get what you are paying for. Im also considering going FMIC but not 100% sure, price is playing a large role in that. I also read that the STI TMIC is close to the same flow as a PW TMIC, so im wondering what it takes to swap that into a 2011 WRX.

If you are going to do any track time, I would consider a FMIC. Otherwise, unless going with a larger turbo, a TMIC is a nice (and cheaper) way to go. The FMIC also brings with it more fitment and install concerns that a TMIC does. Clearances with your intake and front bumper beam tend to be an issue, especially with the cheaper kits.

I'd lean away from the STi stocker. It's a sub-par construction method when compared to the bar and plate construction used by most quality aftermarket companies. You'll have a much better (lower) pressure drop with the PW or Perrin units discussed in the other thread.

[11blackwrx]

I'm planning on staying with the stock turbo and would like a TMIC, just looking for which ones out there are good quality

[Heide264]

I'm planning on staying with the stock turbo and would like a TMIC, just looking for which ones out there are good quality

You are on the right track then. I've never heard of a disappointed PW customer. I believe Maus had some minor rubbing he had to resolve. I'd snatch one up if I wasn't planning to go a bit bigger down the road.

[rage-wrx]

I believe Maus had some minor rubbing he had to resolve.

Maus always has rubbing issues.

I think it was Maus or Bruce who said that they had problems with the PW TMIC clearing the brake fluid reservoir or the brake lines.

[11blackwrx]

Alright then I'll just plan on the PW then, was just trying to see if other could compare for cheaper. Thanks for the info

[Mikie13]

Yeah there's that one PW TMIC for sale on here as well. I'm too lazy to link it.

[DemonWRX]

both of us noted it.....

If you don't have the mounting just right, the re-used driver's side mount will rub and gouge the brake fluid reservoir. this can be easily fixed with a dremmel to the mount.