GrimmSpeed Top Mount Intercooler WRX (2008-2014)

Product Description

GrimmSpeed has designed a TMIC for the 2008-2014 Subaru WRX. This 2008-2014 WRX intercooler was developed from GrimmSpeed for maximum heat transfer for more horsepower and torque. The OEM TMIC does just fine at stock boost under normal use, but as soon as you start putting some real heat into it with higher boost or harder use, it heat-soaks beyond recovery.

Design
There are two primary considerations in the design of an intercooler: maximum heat transfer and minimum pressure drop. Unfortunately, one causes the other, so finding a perfect balance requires a detailed understanding of the intended application, some serious engineering power and the highest quality manufacturing processes. Fitment and quality are also critically important to ensure that the most safety- critical part of your turbo system is up to the task every time your foot hits the floor. GrimmSpeed began by laser scanning an OEM TMIC to plot the mounting points and space claim in CAD with pinpoint accuracy. At the same time, they designed a custom bar and plate core with overall dimensions, fin density and fin types that would provide the insane heat transfer area we require with minimal flow restriction. With core size nailed down, end tanks were designed that offered smooth flow, perfect fitment and even distribution of the hot charge air through the core. Countless revisions were tested in flow simulation before we finally found exactly the characteristics that we wanted. From there, 3D printed prototypes were used to confirm fitment and we began work on manufacturing details in preparation for verification testing and production.

Construction
Each intercooler uses two unique end tanks. The first accepts the hot charge air from the turbo and feeds it to the intercooler core. The second receives the cooled charge air from the core and delivers it to the throttle body. The bypass valve flange is milled flat and stainless steel studs are permanently installed to ensure that the aluminum threads don’t become damaged and shorten the life of the intercooler. Following inspection, end tanks are welded to high density bar and plate intercoolers before the entire assembly is pressure tested, cleaned and sealed for shipment. 5-ply silicone couplers hold their shape in extreme conditions and ensure that charge air makes it to and from the intercooler with no trouble. Splitters are laser cut from aluminum sheet and CNC bent before being assembled and powder coated with a durable texture black finish. Stainless steel hardware secures the splitter to the factory hood scoop.

Performance
GrimmSpeed setup testing to simulate a real world scenario that’s typically demanding of an intercooler. The test vehicle is a 2012 WRX with a GrimmSpeed down-pipe, boost control solenoid, prototype intake and professional tuning. On a closed course, they accelerated in 3rd gear from 3000rpm to redline repeatedly, with 5-8 seconds between runs. Temperature was logged via k-type thermocouples between the turbo and the intercooler and between the intercooler and the throttle body on both units. Ambient temperature for both tests was between 20 and 22 degrees F.

The results speak for themselves, but here’s a breakdown. The phase differences between the runs are a result of how quickly the driver could safely get the car back down to speed for another run, but the important thing to notice is the magnitude of the temperature fluctuations. Predictably, both intercoolers were seeing similar Pre-IC temperatures on each run (180-190F peak), but while the GrimmSpeed Uncoated TMIC kept Post-IC temperatures between 30-40F the entire time, the OEM TMIC fluctuated between 35-75F. This is the kind of consistent cooling that you should expect from a high quality TMIC and is a function of the geometry and design of the bar and plate core. GrimmSpeed’s high density core has a massive heat transfer surface area but maintains a large enough cross-sectional flow area that there’s very little added restriction.

Specs and Features:
• 17.5in x 8.7in x 3.5in Cross Flow Core - careful balance of high heat transfer and low pressure drop
• Cast Aluminum End Tanks - machined BPV flange for precision fit and perfect seal
• 5-Ply Silicone Couplers - custom molded and reinforced for demanding environments
• Wide-Mouth Splitter - collects air from the entire width of the scoop
• Vibration Isolation Mounting - keep the intercooler system from fatigue due to vibration
• Stainless Steel BPV Studs - avoid the risk of damaging fragile aluminum threads
• Cleaned, Inspected and Sealed Prior to Shipping - prevent motor damage due to foreign matter