FMIC VS TMIC (Pros & Cons) Subaru WRX & STI

[@KnightsVolleyball11]

this has to be the best subi channel ive ever found..cant wait for you to blow up

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the support and awesome feedback! 😍

[@jaymartinez1600]

newest bear i was thinking the same😂😂

[@KnightsVolleyball11]

@@jaymartinez1600 lol yeh i migh like grow as a channel

[@HYPERKID79]

How does this guy only have 17k? I found this guy at 9k and his videos were still good quality and good content. He deserves more

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy, appreciate the support 🙌 growing day by day🔥😁

[@Bursti_]

Smeedia is right on with this. Granted he is not including ej20 engines in this. So I figured I would drop my real-life experience running a fmic on a td04 + ej205 engine combo. Hopefully, this is useful to someone. Smeedia is exactly right about the "lag" part of this video. To double this point if anyone here watches Engineering Explained, he said that you should ALWAYS be around 4k RPM before you get on it. It is the healthiest spot for your car to get into boost because a lot of the system is pressurized and oil is being forced around at a good rate. So anytime I get on it in my car i am always at 4k RPM. To give some background and mods. Mine is nothing special, but for those who are worried about ej205 and small turbo filling a front mount, this should be helpful to you. I have a 2005 wrx EJ205, TD04, Grimmspeed electronic boost control solenoid, Tial 38mm external wastegate, 565cc pink injectors, IAG AOS, blah blah blah (There is other shit like Air suspension and so on but its not important to the topic but if you want to see what the car looks like then just look up Boosting.jpg on insta and you can see it and I will answer any question I can to help). The typical stuff. Now I have been pro tuned twice by Chleo at IAG Performance. Once on my 5 speed (no broken gears, center diff started making weird noises) then tuned on a non-dccd v7 Sti 6 speed (AMAZING UPGRADE FOR WRX). So I have NOT been retuned on the FMIC that I installed, here is why. I had it sitting around for 4 years and was too scared to and I figured "if I do pro tune again I am going bigger turbo and blah blah blah" Reason I have not retuned is because I am looking at the data on accessport and monitoring a few different parameters that Sheedia should have also mentioned. Now, these are the important ones. The wrx if I remember correctly is a 16Bit ECU which means our tables do not have many cells. - The BIG one to monitor is called Dynamic Advanced Multiplier this can show you the knock events and when it's safe to get on your car or not. On the 16Bit ECU, this Value is represented out of 16, and below 16 means that the car is seeing something so it is altering the tables to save the car. So for me when I reset my ECU it was at 16 but dropped down to around 4. I was worried but as I drove more and got more data this number rose back up and settle back out at 16/16. - Next is A/F learning 1 which allows you to see the percent of A/F learning and I don't know this one by hear but I know that the key here is to keep it between -8 and +8 - Next are both the knock event logs. Mine both still sit at 0 which is good. Now if you see knock that is where the DAM comes in to help you confirm if it were a true knock event or if it might have been a heat shield rattling or something. The knock sensor can pick up on intercooler piping clanking or heat shields rattling or just weird stuff but I have never had the issue. People think watching their AFR will do something but on a 16Bit ECU and it being narrowband will not show you any accurate information. This is why the WideBand is important if you want to monitor AFR on the wrx. That is it for what I am monitoring. For more advanced people yes you can go into it more but for those of us not running crazy-ass Subarus with stupid horsepower, this should be more than enough for you. My finding on running the fmic on a ej205 and stock td04? Well, it's amazing! For those in hot climates like me where the weather has mood swings, this is a perfect upgrade. There were no downsides. No lag, no tuning issues after install because of my previous tune on my intake (DO NOT put a fmic on if you are on stock air box and switching to fmic and intake then you will need a retune). You will find that the car does in fact feel like it is running better thanks to all the nice cold air it gets. I ran the STi TMIC before this and in hot weather, this car would Actually feel like it's having heatstroke. It would respond poorly and the power was way down and getting the car to even move felt like a chore because the heat just ate the power-up. Now for the real banger.... The FMIC is from eBay.... honestly it does the job. It's piping and a core. nothing fancy. The bends don't line up well so I got on amazon and just got longer silicone hoses to make it work. I run the stock BPV because these cars do not really like aftermarket valves unless necessary when you get into high horsepower. I am sure some may wonder about the power. This is NOT a fast car by any means it made 230WHP on TD04 at 19PSI (which is the max on this turbo) and 250TQ (high tQ bc of 6 speed) So you can see that many people will say "you don't need an FMIC until the 400HP range" and that is where I think they are thinking one-sidedly on the subject. If it's a horsepower thing then yes but if its a day-to-day driving and function thing then that is where the thinking ends. I think an FMIC is very much a positive solution for any EJ205 car because the benefits even at a horsepower as low as mine is justified. Conclusion: For my Ej205 brothers and sisters out there, go ahead and run an FMIC on your TD04 as long as you have a tune or get tuned. You will see a nice improvement all around. There is really no downside at all. For Forum people, we all know how they are. They are kind of useless to say the least. They tell you that adding window tint will cause your engine to knock. So be skeptical of people throwing in their two cents and look for people who have REAL world results for what you are after. I was in the same boat looking for this answer and just decided to do it and it worked out better than I could imagine. I even called IAG for them to explain all the monitoring software and they were more than helpful and I learned a lot. The last thing they told me is to enjoy the car and don't be scared. Hope this helps people out there and good luck have fun!

[@djteako]

There is one other downside to a FMIC you didn't touch on - but it's probably because most Subie owners never actually drive their car where it was meant to be driven, or you don't winter drive it where they use sand and gravel on the roads. But if you do actually drive a lot of gravel roads, a FMIC is much more prone to getting beat up by rocks etc, and at 60 m/hr+, it doesn't take much of a rock to actually puncture the intercooler! That being said, you can put some kind of protective screen over it, but then that cuts a bit of the airflow from it, and takes away from the aggressive looks.

[@vaerxxx3231]

I live on a dirt road so TMIC would be ideal.

[@pl-boostcreep]

V mount

[@cheyennedanz8567]

I am not sure where you are coming with this logic unless you are driving behind someone. That is the only way I could see rock and dirt hitting/obstructing a FMIC. Debris just doesn't say "Hey! Rex coming! Let me just jump in the air a sec."

[@djteako]

@@cheyennedanz8567 yes, unfortunately most of us don't live somewhere where we get the road all to ourselves!!!! Just so you know, up here in Alberta, we have to install a new windshield pretty much every year, due to rocks and gravel being flung by other vehicles. It's just part and parcel of where we live!

[@LuisJimenez-hr8ds]

I've seen grills that protect the FMIC. It's what I'll install once I upgrade my turbo and go for the FMIC.😎🤙

[@jcmmel]

The fact that you completely shoved the whole “more lag with FMIC” bullshit out the window made me respect you SO much. THANK YOU. THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT TRY TO COME AT ME SAYING FMIC IS GOING TO CAUSE LAG IS NNNGGGGHHHHHFFFFF

[@tommanning7337]

Man!!!! Love this channel, content is alway legit.🔥🔥

[@Smeedia]

Gotta keep everyone on their toes 😉 two videos to spice it up a bit lol also felt like we haven't done a discussion in a while so wanted to get one out 🔥

[@tommanning7337]

Smeedia good call!!!👍🏻👍🏻

[@benkova6925]

Your channel deserves way more subs. Very knowledgeable and informative, certainly cuts out a lot of time on our hands from how much you've done already and you take it a step further to spend even more time with us to teach so we can confidently make well informed decisions on where we go. Thanks a ton, it means a lot.

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the support and the feedback, i try to put as much useful information into the videos as I can 🔥😁

[@naimeavdylifeta]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5nFk2d9hNighLM

[@AaronFrench7]

Run methanol injection (like myself) and it's basically irrelevant :D With a larger turbo, your not pushing as hot of air like you are with the stock turbo especially at higher boost levels; so that's something else to consider. Meth/water injection will cool the charged air even further. Larger turbos are more efficient when it comes to the temperature of the charged air. On the topic of turbos, and you mentioned turbo blankets etc. having the turbine housing ceramic coated and even the compressor side helps combat under the hood temps near the intercooler. I have a Blouch Dom 3.0R which is jet hot coated and it makes a difference. Another thing that helps with top mounts is running a cold air intake vs a short ram. IMHO, most people don't need a FMIC but a lot of people like to run them because it looks cool; unless you are approaching 500whp I'd say don't worry about it. Now, if you are trying to push the stock turbo to it's limits than go for it, because it'll be a high powered hair dryer at that point and a FMIC would help. If you go with a turbo upgrade but are not planning on building the motor and shooting for 500+whp and don't want a slight increase in turbo lag or to throw down for a FMIC just get a larger top mount and/or run meth/eth injection. Heat soak is going to come into play for sure when your car is sitting still. At speed, I wouldn't worry much about heat soak. I'll have to do some testing on this with my GD STI to confirm. FYI I'm running a Spearco TMIC with Dom 3R/meth and putting down 400whp at 22psi.

[@nikesbeast]

Verticooler ftw

[@pubuju5254]

@@nikesbeast wish they made them for sti so bad

[@Visca_Motion_Pictures]

Very good information. Sweet build man!

[@Outlier117]

I’m currently stage 2 tuned on my sti, but I wrapped my down pipe, installed a turbo blanket, and have a Perrin heat shield and it’s amazing in the difference it’s made. I do occasional hard driving and since I did the heat mods the Intercooler usually stays cool to the touch. I would run fmic but it’s not in the budget at the moment! Lol .....Awesome video as usual!!!

[@Smeedia]

Those heat reduction mods will go a long way! And one of the benefits with the TMIC Is that budget price. Appreciate the feedback and support!

[@LucianYoungblood]

I also wrapped my exhaust from the exhaust headers, up pipe, turbo, and down pipe, up to the first resonator with heat tape and blanket. Seems to helped out with the heat soak and bay temps. Currently running stage 1 cobb on 14 wrx hatch.

[@evlx14]

Working my way backwards through your videos. Your knowledge is cool AF. Thanks for the info.

[@Smeedia]

Anytime and there is a lot of them to go through 😅😅😅

[@WRXMAN-ms2mm]

I favour the TMIC option especially with the FA 20 turbo down below and given that my BHP will stay under 400. I also favour the fuel economy/ BHP ratio 😍 of the FA 20 platform. I did replace the OEM TMIC with a larger Grimmspeed TMIC. Awesome quality! For EJ 25 STI owners I get the FMIC attraction, power!. FMIC cover up the radiator though which has to compromise engine coolant temperatures, I think a negative. On the plus side I have seen some STI owners place the Perrin oil cooler where the TMIC used to be. Put that hood scoop to good use, form follows function!

[@Smeedia]

I'm not a big fan of the top mounted oil cooler but for air flow purposes it is an awesome location to utilize!as for airflow to the radiator it doesn't really negate too much, if anything just creates some turbulence when the air passes through the IC 🔥

[@mlbjr]

Top mount all day with a vented hood for heat extraction cold air intake. Works great with a high end radiator. Plus the hood scoop still looks bad ass. Less weight too.

[@Smeedia]

What are your IATs like? Were looking at trying a similar set up on my room mates outback XT and

[@oscarp9336]

Another great video. I've learned so much more with your content than watching 5 other videos on the same subject. Thanks again for what you do! 👍👍👍

[@Smeedia]

Anytime and glad the videos have helped my friend!

[@BlackWat3rGTR]

Cobb TMIC is good to 500whp.... buy and it call it a day. Not many are going over 500whp realistically for a daily.

[@rayperez4922]

Great video! Forgot to mention that front mount will automatically require tuning vs top mount that doesn’t require it. I just purchased a Grimmspeed top mount specifically because it doesn’t require tuning.

[@Smeedia]

Good point, the length of the charge piping will alter the AFRs on with a FMIC Vs swapping to a different TMIC 🔥

[@TycoSlash]

​@@Smeedia Quick question and I hope you're reading this. Would FMIC/larger volume of TMIC without any tuning would cause any check engine light?

[@Smeedia]

It wouldent cause a CEL unless it created underlying issues but the car definitely won't be operating at its optimal

[@MannyRoutes]

Awesome content as always, just subscribed recently. '18 STi owner here. I've been thinking about converting to a front mount for the cooling benefits especially with the heat soak here daily driving here in FL. Awesome, helpful video! 🔥

[@Smeedia]

Glad the vidro helped and appreciate the support! Love the reduction in IATs with mine 😁

[@Mizxraim]

Never get tired of seeing the STI🔥🔥

[@Smeedia]

Should be coming around more as I start getting these E85 parts in 🔥

[@sebastiengagnon9539]

Just got my 2018 wrx your channel helped alot in making my decision your channel is awsome dude!!

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car and glad the videos help! 🙏🔥

[@kylefeldhaus]

Could you make a video on Blow off valves and how to safely run a full atmospheric BOV without hurting the car? Great video btw!

[@Smeedia]

I've made that one 😁 BOV Vs BPV posted a few months back but covers how to safely run one. And appreciate the feedback!

[@thatsmylineleaveitalone]

Lyle Slaphaus Don’t 🤑

[@mintieness4987]

I just got the gfb hybrid bov and run it at 50/50 on the stock tune

[@mintieness4987]

Michael farro how were you able to tell?

[@houaxiong7406]

Been watching your vids for about a month. And just realized I wasn’t subbed Just subbed and I dont regret it!

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy appreciate the support! 🔥😁

[@ChasWG]

TWO Videos today!?!?!? Did someone get a little last night? You sir are on fire! Love the topic. I think for me and what I want to do with my car, (FA20 WRX) a aftermarket TMIC will get it done. That Process West Verticooler looks pretty cool, if you know what I mean and I think you do.

[@Smeedia]

Have to keep people on their toes! Lol we haven't done a discussion in a while and wanted to get one out as well as the BRZ Update. The verticollers are interesting in comparison lol they definitely look cool 🔥

[@ehesh1499]

You are such a cool guy. I love your enthusiasm with cars

[@Smeedia]

Thank you! Appreciate the support 😁😁😁

[@SigmaGuy1984]

You weren’t kidding when you said how annoying it was to remove the TMIC to replace the coupler. I literally just did it today and what should’ve taken 20 minutes took me an hour or more and messed up some of the fins on it. I am literally purchasing a FMIC Now just so I don’t ever have to worry about replacing that damn coupler because of a stupid boost leak.

[@Smeedia]

I keep saying, TMICs have a special place in hell 😅

[@leonardorodriguez7153]

I had a screen protecting my front mount intercooler in my 03-wrx and it always caught nasty amount of bugs and snow in the winter. It also made the car look more subtle without exposing a big Perrin front mount.

[@octurbojoe]

How can I turn that like button bluer than it is? Very good points. Don't fall for the forum sticky rhetorics as aftermarket technology have advanced since then. Cooler charge air IS cooler charge air!! That's the absolute truth! Thank you for this vid. I may make one as well, according to my experience...

[@Smeedia]

Knock it out my dude! The forms have some good points defending TMICs but performance wise the FMIC is always a better option IMO

[@cheaterbacon2079]

I’m glad I found your channel, can’t wait to start my Fa20 build😭😭 wish me luck

[@danpalomino7994]

Great video man! I’ve heard some rally drivers complain that weight distribution is affected when switching to a FMIC. Heavier on the nose of the car over the axles which ultimately affects the handling characteristics of the vehicle. May be minuscule compared to the gains you can get with a Front mount but still should be taken into consideration for an auto x enthusiast.

[@Jlb-fz7nl]

Excellent points Sir ! I would like to add my experience I had a 05 Sti (really miss that car) I installed a 20g turbo and a APS DR525 fmic very high quality and heavy. I think it came with its own bumper beam(long time ago and im getting old). My very first impression was i noticed the weight of the dr525 when throwing the car around it definitely felt heavier especially because it hung below the bumper beam. After the first summer here in Az. my oil temps started rising a bit , I ended up putting a heavy duty radiator on the card which took care of that. If i didnt live in AZ it probably have been ok

[@stuartwelker5495]

The reason I have chosen not to go FMIC for my track STI is the restriction to radiator airflow by placing the FMIC in front of the radiator. I’d say that should be listed as a negative to FMIC.

[@Smeedia]

Good point to add in, I couldn't say that it is restrictive to the radiator. If anything it would just make the air passing through the intercooler more turbulent going into the radiator

[@gheewheez7624]

Thank you for the info. Just ordered a COBB fmic. Love your channel sir! Very informative and straight to point.

[@Smeedia]

Congrats! Solid intercooler and one of the best fitment you can get. 😁

[@gheewheez7624]

Smeedia I have a question. Do I need to upgrade to a bigger turbo if I do e85? Thank you sir 🙏🏼

[@Smeedia]

You can run E85 on stock turbo 😁

[@gheewheez7624]

Smeedia thank you sir!!! That’s good to know 🙏🏼You just saved me close to $2k😃🙌🏼✌🏼

[@gheewheez7624]

Smeedia Thank you 🙏🏼

[@isthatarexy1009]

awesome video always, ive always been told that there will be a lag when switching to front mount but it makes sense if you have a smaller tubro then it doesnt need much to spool up :)

[@DaytonaRoadster]

its been measured, it litterally .02 second of lag

[@arench92]

Just commenting to show support to the channel! Quality video as usual 🙌🏽

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy appreciate the love and support! 🔥🙌

[@dragracingrule]

I’m gonna go top mount on mine. I don’t really want to cut the bumper on the saab. That’s the thing on mine. Plus I’m not looking for a lot of power haha.

[@clamboni9]

If only someone could come up with a FMIC that performed well but retained the factory crash bar...or at least came with a crash bar that wasn't completely useless.

[@MindsetTheory]

Alright bro, I'm sold. I'm adding the FMIC to my list of mods. Lol

[@Smeedia]

Totally worth it my guy 🙌

[@VotEtoPizdets]

Well said. I dont believe you missed any key points in the argument. Im sure your video will help alot of people understand the applications available to them when modifying their projects accurately.

[@Smeedia]

🙏🙏🙏

[@jimjudson8281]

I think a lot of people add FMICs for looks and that’s fine if that’s what you’re going for. Deleting front bracing for the FMIC is not a good idea, but if looks outweighs safety, then it’s your decision. Removing a TMIC is not that difficult. I can remove mine in a couple of minutes. Unless you’re building a race car to attach the Nurburgring, an upgraded TMIC with a PTP blanket and an aftermarket heat shield will work perfectly fine.

[@Smeedia]

I run a front crash bar and most kits out there include them to retain the safety aspect. But that also depends on what people are willing to pay. But TMICs still work very efficiently. Removing the TMIC is not bad but putting it back on is awful 😅

[@bretwentzel8824]

ive seen people have success with both in almost any scenario (daily, street, track, Drag, roll racing, rally, it honestly depends on your style

[@Wyatt274]

Best of both worlds, I picked up a Process West Verticooler

[@nickcalyx420]

On an fa20 you can monitor IAT at the manifold

[@michaelcaldwell5094]

With the fa model the turbo is not under your Intercooler so that’s a big help.

[@Smeedia]

Very good point and you have much shorter charge piping in comparison to the STI or older WRXs

[@Shotty2daFACE]

It's still a PIA to get back on.

[@bentley6028]

I like that in that link with the charts they say cons of going fmic is buying one installing you have to cut your front bumper 😂😂😂 was planning to get a fm anyway but now its in stone thanks for the info man

[@Smeedia]

Lol wanted to include that info, some intercooler you don't have to cut the bumper for which was another selling point for me 🔥 appreciate the support!

[@bentley6028]

@@Smeedia oh no shit? Id imagine they arent very thick tho huh?

[@mathewromero4866]

I dread it when I have to take my tmic off. I've procrastinated on installing parts before because I didn't want to take it off lol. But I'm planning on buying a fmic really soon! I really like the ETS and Perrin because you can run a crash beam.

[@Smeedia]

Yessss, the crash beam makes a difference IMO for saftey. I installed ETSs crash beam and super happy with it

[@7ate7]

In terms of "need", a FMIC is not needed unless you're hitting crazy HP numbers, like 600+whp. A good TMIC is more than capable for a normal street car. There's exemptions to this rule, of course, like being stuck in traffic at 110 degrees, but it's not like the engine is going to blow. I, myself, prefer FMIC because I like the dental work of my car. It now has a beautiful smile.

[@Smeedia]

Lol I like that reference 🤣 I agree that it's not needed but in terms of FMIC vs TMIC the benefits of a FMIC outweigh those of a TMIC in my opinion. However TMICs are cheaper and better for budgets. But I also hate putting them back on 🤣

[@andrewpaige9152]

I have a Process West TMIC to run with stock MY99 GC8 WRX we get the JDM version here in Australia and the kit allows you to add the STI water jets which I did add to mine ✌🏻great informative video love all your content

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the support! And the water jets are one of my favorite OEM features 😅

[@chrisbaines9206]

Another great breakdown ooooh😂😂 broswki have me crying when he says oooooh😂😂.... Keep it going💯💯😄😄😂

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the love my dude 🔥🙌 lmao

[@MrGsxrme]

Just a heads up cobb released the update to access tuner with the CCF Gen 2 software. You can now do a speed density tune without the pro software. You should buy mega log viewer HD to build a histogram based off of your logs to rebuild the ve table. There's no press release on the update. You just need to tell accesstuner to check for updates. If you haven't paid for the class to get your AccessTuner software, now is definitely the time in 100% worth it. If you have a pre-existing CCF Gen1 tune you will need to start over entirely due to the tables are entirely different.

[@Smeedia]

WHAT! definitely looking into this when I get home today. Haven't taken the classes but have been wanting to so this might just be the time to do it now. Appreciate the heads up on that! How long ago did they release that?

[@MrGsxrme]

That I don't know. I just randomly went to accesstuner and check for updates. Make sure to update your Cobb accessport after. You also need to uninstall your Cobb accessport from your car's ECU and reflash the car's ECU after you started to build your gen2 map. There's a guide from going from Gen 1 to Gen 2 on Cobb's website.

[@papermind4010]

I love your videos bro I hope you blow up Your channel not you specifically

[@Smeedia]

Hahaha 😂😂😂 appreciate the support, and would be awesome to see happen! The channel not me... lol

[@myroadtours6147]

People running FMIC's should run a stock Impraza hood. You don't need the scoop anymore and you loose drag with a regular hood. Either IC, you could run a CO2 tank and purge kit to the IC. Just spray it down before a race. I saw Buick guys do this back when I had my 87 T-Type.

[@Smeedia]

Swapping to an impreza hood also helps with air flow to the FMIC

[@JohnnyWishbone85]

Speaking as a thermal/fluids engineer, I think the fundamental points in this video are very good, but I take issue with the statement that a TMIC heat soaks more than a FMIC because of heat rising. To be fair to the author, this is not their original idea, but rather one of "common wisdom." No doubt heat rising is a small part of the issue, but far more important is the simple fact that a FMIC is just further away from the hottest parts of the engine bay, with quite a bit of insulation between it and those hot parts, mainly in the form of the radiator and AC condenser. For my part, I run the Grimmspeed top-mount on my Outback because I do lots of light off-roading in it, and I want to keep the IC away from the ground and gravel and other crud. I got the intercooler in black because the color and texture of the coating improve heat transfer from the charge air. The next thing on my list is the Killer-B EL-headers with the ceramic coating to reduce engine bay temperatures. This also helps improve heat transfer from the coolant radiator, too. I love your channel, though, you do a great job.

[@Smeedia]

Good information to add in and appreciate it! All for helping others with added info 🙌😁

[@Kichizo_DJ]

Nice video again! I’m still TMIC with the mishimoto. The piping is much easier then stock. I wish I went FMIC when I did it and wish I saw this video before I made a decision lol 😂

[@cre8tivegarage157]

Another banger 🔥

[@Smeedia]

🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@bruceholinight7978]

Nice work brother , I want a front mount just because taking off my intercooler is a pain in my ass , the first time took me 2 hrs. Second 20 min. Still want the front although I am concerned with lag and I think my version 8 JDM top mount intercooler may be better than some front mounts !

[@Smeedia]

Lag is honestly unnoticeable to me but I feel your pain with the TMIC struggle 😅

[@elbandidosti]

"Think ahead before buying your parts," the best advice I heard in a while. Are you still running internals in your car? Hope not...great vid! Stop jumping! Lmao!

[@Smeedia]

I'm still on stock internals, staying on stock internals until is blows lol I want to see how much power I can pull from a stock block before it shuts the bed 😅

[@elbandidosti]

Smeedia 😳🤣

[@aarynmurphy7174]

When I swapped from top mount to front on stock turbo, I compared the lag and it was about 200 rpm so very negligible that you actually notice with the but dyno and if your using that as a excuse as why you lost a race you have other issues bro

[@walou3917]

You're the man! This helped alot, thanks!

[@Smeedia]

Anytime! Appreciate the support!

[@Mikey6048]

Completely agree. I absolutely hate removing and installing my factory TMIC. I've almost slammed it into the ground to break it on purpose as a excuse to go FMIC..... rofl.

[@Smeedia]

Lmao that thing is an actual nightmare to put back on 🤣 we've all been there where we want to smash it

[@Mikey6048]

@@Smeedia The only way I get it on, is not to install the throttle body to TMIC coupler at all when installing the TMIC on the turbo. Then after the turbo is tight. I fold the coupler through the TMIC and throttle body. Works well enough. But still sucks.

[@truexh]

FMIC is a win hands down regardless of how much power or heat soak. Trying to put both the turbo fitting and the manifold coupler back is a pain in the f* a$$...

[@Smeedia]

That's literally the main reason why I got a FMIC 🤣

[@pirihern9329]

Evo was a better set up in that regard

[@Jlb-fz7nl]

I do like the verticooler from Process West but i think its for wrx only not Sti

[@zeno15sti33]

Hey Man , I'm ( was )running Ets 4in front mount , Cobb 20G w/44m wastegate on a stock exhaust manifold. And did have noticeable boost lag. That I'm pretty sure comes from the intercooler. I would say watch it with the 4in and 5in intercooler depending on your setup.

[@michaelowens1491]

Thank you for the information. Love the channel! Recently subscribed. I have a lot of videos to catch up on!

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy, glad your enjoying them and appreciatw the support! 😁🔥

[@JadenHallProductions]

The man! Love your videos !

[@Smeedia]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@stevenroseren9300]

Great video , but I would have agree and slightly disagree I run the the same ETS FMIC , with a built motor and a stock location turbo the blotch dominator 3 which is a decent turbo , but the lag on does have a lot to do with the piping especially when it’s traveling so far from the “ hot pipes which is the hot side and cold pipes which is the cold pipe, thus meaning the charged air has a while to travel to the turbo, so yes size of the turbo has a huge part in to turbo lag but the piping does also , I think ETS has some pretty good piping , but I’ve seen Cobb’s and it’s much more efficient in my opinion. It’s just very expensive

[@KingSoully12]

10:06 PREACH!!🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@Smeedia]

Top mount intercooler have a special place in hell lmao

[@dcljr95]

What do you recommend for fmic on a 2012 wrx I do auto cross and trying to get cooler numbers I live in Texas so very hot summers

[@gizengar111]

Take a shot every time he says intercooler

[@laparka108]

Kiss me you mammal

[@FITTYCAL]

Can you run an aftermarket tmic on stock tune? also keep the vids coming your killing it.

[@Smeedia]

You can run one without a tune but you won't see much gain from it. I would recommend getting a protune with it. And thank you 🔥 needed to get a discussion post out. Been a little while 🙌

[@stevenroseren9300]

Do not do that your Air fuel ratios will be all over the place, remember that the map for your car is made for that specific core intercooler , these cars are extremely sensitive to putting aftermarket parts, after literally any part except a cat back exhaust you have to get a tune whether it’s a E-tune or whatever preferably a pro-tune . Plus when your changing your TMIC you might as well change some stuff while your in the there, like TGV deletes it’s really cheap, if you have a WRX you can do TGV and EGR deletes also for super cheap .

[@cynoshifter]

Any adjustment to your intake flow will throw a check engine light. If you are set on just the intercooler you will be wasting your time on a tune. Go ahead and do the cold air intake, charge pipe, tgv/egr deletes, and a three way boost controller. Only then will you want to spend the money on a pro/dyno tune.

[@BKersey]

Steven Roseren Ron with phatbotti tuning says a tune is not required for an aftermarket tmic.

[@STI.Ricardito]

Ben Kersey I went to his shop, for some reason I felt like I didn’t trust him and a major lazy vibe, maybe it was his assistant and not him.

[@Acrimoniousbear1]

This feels like a tougher topic albeit one I was very excited for. I'm interested to hear more as to why folks feel it worth it to go with an aftermarket tmic. I'm interested in one myself but I feel like the money may not make much of a difference. I also don't want more nose weight and not interested in making much over 350wheel. I want the fastest spool possible (coming from an N/A instant torque car) and a buncha mid range power for AutoX. I feel like this topic also separates the STI from the FA20 WRX due to the turbo location and general differences. Any takes? I feel it may be beneficial to bandaid this problem with a turbo blanket and lots of heat sheilding.

[@NoEdits704]

I put an AMS FMIC on my Evo 8 years ago, hit a big raccoon going 60, destroyed it. One reason to stay top mount.

[@Smeedia]

I've seen some birds do similar damage to top mounts 😅 but less likely to happen

[@Mr2fast909]

Aye Man U made me go fmic was well worth it ... putting it on was a different story but did it 😀😀

[@Smeedia]

FMIC is the way to go 🙌🔥😁

[@Mr2fast909]

@@Smeedia haha yeah it was .. thanks for the information about the intercoolers check me out Issa_rexz . The build is still in the process

[@K_man217]

Got a screamin deal on a spearco top mount, and I can’t afford a high HP build so… fate decided? I’ll be happy with my sub 350 WRX, mo powa mo problems lol

[@brennenconnors4595]

Dope video, getting the ETS soon!

[@Smeedia]

Yessss ETS is the way to go 🔥

[@mikehartley3119]

Dont forget you will have to cut up your bumper to to get it fit over the fmic. Also fmic looks so much more BA than tmic 😁

[@Smeedia]

Totally agree! And some intercoolers you don't need to do any trimming 😁

[@dannyboy3591]

I can't really afford a FMIC plus I just want to daily my car and not push that crazy of hp. I work nights anyways, so traffic isn't an issue and ambient temps are lower. But if I get a Process West TMIC do I have to do any retuning afterwards?

[@Smeedia]

Technically you don't have to retune after install but I would still suggest it 🙏

[@twinkletheater8237]

How do you feel about the Cobb 15+ FMIC for STI? How about the Perrin? I noticed you didn’t mention either one and was wondering if it was because they don’t work as well or price or just because there are so many choices. Thanks again! Sorry I just straight up missed the fmic mentions of Cobb and such. Either way, any more opinions would be greatly appreciated. How do you feel about a grill/mesh to protect the fmic?

[@Smeedia]

The Cobb works great, it is just wildley more expensive. The perrin one I personally don't like how the charge pipes are routed. But they're both good options as well. Mesh works great 🥳

[@ndawg87]

Is it possible to have both an FMIC and a TMIC. If so, how much benefit? If not, what else can be done to get as much heat out of the engine compartment? Temps are hitting close to 100 with high humidity in the summer.

[@Smeedia]

I mean technically you can, no benefit in doing so though. Thr IATs tour monitoring are readings off of thr MAF which are pre intercooler. A FMIC will definitely help to drop temps and a relocated IAT sensor

[@Jnoobs1]

Do you think painting the TMIC black would help mitigate some of that turbo heat soak? I remember seeing Mighty Car Mods test this theory with FMIC’s and it was astonishing with the results they found.

[@Smeedia]

I've seen mixed results because I theory black absorb heat instead of dissipating it

[@Jnoobs1]

@@Smeedia understandable, wasn’t sure if anyone has tested it with a TMIC. Great video though! I’ll be taking delivery of my 1st Subaru (Pearl White STI) next month and starting to look around at some things. If you have any spare equipment from your EJ Blubaru build I may be interested!

[@FreshlySnipes]

I just can’t drive a WRX STI w/o that hood scoop. Can’t do it. I pick up my new ‘21 STI on Monday, I’m juiced!! Have had a 2015 Focus ST since new modded out. This is all new.

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy congrats on the STI 🙏🙌

[@FreshlySnipes]

@@Smeedia thank you my friend. I’ll be watching many of your videos to learn how to mod it! Go Hawks - 12 😎

[@OnlyToon]

Crazy shit I was just pondering on that last night if I wanted to go Fmic

[@beofflxne7014]

thanks for all these detail . also u habe put some fmic brand in ur description .i wanna know is ets is better than the cobb one . ets looks insane but i got a couple of cobb parts so

[@andybiscuits]

Planning to buy a 2022 STI as my first of the WRX platform, and that’s how I found your channel. You do a phenomenal job and I’ve learned a lot from you. One question on topic, how much would hood vents help with reducing the engine bay temps that would lead to heat soak of a TMIC?

[@Smeedia]

To an extent they would, I've seen up to 10* drop in IATs on a good day and other days Temps hang out around ambient 🙏😁

[@tnguyen]

They stopped at 21

[@andybiscuits]

Yeah. This is an old comment. Luckily I bought a ‘21 shortly before they announced there wouldn’t be a ‘22

[@andybiscuits]

Yeah. This is an old comment. Luckily I bought a ‘21 shortly before they announced there wouldn’t be a ‘22

[@andybiscuits]

Yeah. This is an old comment. Luckily I bought a ‘21 shortly before they announced there wouldn’t be a ‘22

[@pasigiri]

I know this is an old video (this vid was AWESOME in getting me to understand some details about FMIC vs TMIC), but I have a question with regards to the VA WRX specifically on this subject. The FA20DIT's turbo (header and cat for that matter) is literally right behind the radiator. It's also right below the intake piping. Going with a FMIC puts said IC much closer to some of the hottest parts of the engine even though it's getting direct air from the front. When the car is moving I can see IATs being good, but getting into boost and pushing, let alone just sitting idling, is what I wonder about with regards to IATs with the FMIC. With a TMIC, said IC is much further away from the turbo, cat, and headers. Granted it's at the top of the engine bay (heat rises), it's still not being completely blasted by radiating heat. Now all of this is considering staying under 400hp (at 350tq in the FA20DIT, you'll have another three letters to be concerned about: R-O-D). I just wanted to get your thoughts on this, or anybody else that reads this TBH.

[@Smeedia]

With some proper heat control I wouldent forsee it being too much of an issue, tuebo blanket and coated headers should be 👌

[@Pr0j3ctSTI]

Hey I’m not sure if you mentioned it or in any other video on different Front mount Intercoolers. Perrin ETS Cobb mishimoto etc. would be nice to hear your opinion on each of them 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@Smeedia]

Haven't really touched on them but all three of those are good choices 🔥😁

[@prayforgains]

i have an 02 bugeye, i need a new tmic but do o really need to tune it just for that?

[@gheygladiator]

Fmic = no crashbar right? I heard that gets complicated with insurance if you were to get into an accident

[@Smeedia]

Solid point, I run a crash bar on mine and many other brand out there now offer Cradhbars with their cores. 10/10 would suggest getting one with a crash bar

[@nealwright3124]

Turboxs, Perrin, ets and I believe prl all have crash bars now

[@stevenroseren9300]

Neal Wright and Cobb

[@stevenroseren9300]

drliu I actually almost ran into this problem but luckily my friend was able to get it done with the insurance not knowing lol

[@jessebudelman]

FMIC - “How high are your AIT? “ TMIC ::see’s snoop dogg hitting a blunt:: FMIC- “Damn, that’s high.”

[@Smeedia]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jessebudelman]

Someone should make a pair of custom piping allowing you to run both top and front IC... haha All the air flows.

[@JacobMcKinney0725]

Hey man, thanks for the great video, Just a quick question from a noob. I've just replaced the motor on my 2011 WRX with an EJ255 Stage 2 Tuff (hopefully I'm saying that correctly) and I'm looking to get about ~400 WHP at the end of the day with no plan to upgrade the turbo which is still stock. Would a Grimmspeed TMIC be a good investment or would you still suggest going with the FMIC? Thanks!

[@Smeedia]

Either option would be sufficient, a grimmspeed top mount is capable of handling 400. I dont foresee you making that much on stock turbo though. The VF52 caps around 320ish WHP

[@literofcola6628]

Not gonna lie. Thought this was a 100k+ sub channel. *surprised pikachu face* when I seen the 8k. I see big things in the near future.

[@Smeedia]

Lol appreciate the awesome feedback, only been making videos for a few months but glad to seem bigger than I am 😅 if you ever have any questions please feel free to reach out!

[@victornunez9364]

Super great Video man !!! Loved it !! I’m trying to run E85 but the only thing I need left is the Intercooler, idk which one to decide . Either Verticooler (TMIC) or FMIC , but my WRX has 38k miles I’m on stage 2 protuned and I haven’t got no single problem . I daily drive my car and commute about 30 mins a day, but dim what’s the best for daily driving . Please help . TMIC OR FMIC ??

[@Smeedia]

Both are good for daily driving, I would suggest a TMIC if you have a lot of rocks in your area or if its more city I would suggest a FMIC 😁

[@sethg2008]

What do you think about a heat shield under the TMIC and a hood with hood vents? Seems like that may help keep the IAT lower? Also I live in New England, seems like the TMIC might be better where you may get a lot of slush/road grime in your front bumper?

[@mgrotel]

Do you have a video on rotating the intake manifold 180° and what all needs to be done? With my FP green, I'm about maxed out on my grimmspeed TMIC.

[@laparka108]

Yes link in the description.

[@jayhoward7448]

Very good info.. thanks smeedia👍🏼👍🏼 now let's all count how many times the word intercoolers was used in this video.😂🤣

[@Smeedia]

Fuck dude you should see the out takes with how many times I screwed that word up 🤣

[@krowncarnival]

Would cool to see intake Temps on the Cobb accessport before and after to see if they really do make a difference.

[@Smeedia]

My buddy had a TMIC we can def make that video 😁

[@shawnz5272]

The only downside of a fmic is having to remove the crash beam. If you get into an accident good luck. Performance wise no downside to a fmic

[@Smeedia]

Alot of options for front crash bars with aftermarket intercooler now though 🔥

[@warpdriveby]

I'd like to shave some weight and noticed there's a single pipe 4" exhaust made for the wrx(15+). Do you know about them or have you tried one? I also don't want it more than 50% louder than stock, and already have a stg 1+ and cobb SF airbox

[@matthewtimber4780]

If you are running a front mount, is there an intake that uses the hood scoop as a ram-air intake? It'd be nice to have the scoop still be purposeful when relocating the IC to the front

[@Smeedia]

None that I've seen, would be a cool idea but still would be battling some hot air coming up from the turbo

[@willgeez]

Fucking love this channel! Such great content man thank you! 😁

[@alanchanthavisouk8557]

Another good topic to discuss is . What gas station do u go to n why?

[@Smeedia]

Not a bad idea 🤔 I work with the petroleum industry so I can get some good info on that 🔥

[@floZone007]

Great info man! Thanks!

[@Smeedia]

Anytime! Appreciate the support 🔥🙏

[@theblackmanarmedwithacamera]

A PERFECTLY EXECUTED VIDEO!

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the love! 🔥🙌 gotta get that good content out there!

[@Dave-so7sf]

REDHOT WRX Hi REDHOT WRX 😄Team S15 New England! He makes me want a FMIC now.

[@瞻高-b9q]

v mount is the only way to go for track. my sti still needs to do cool down lap after a couple hot laps.

[@Smeedia]

V mount is the best option for custom set ups if your gling that route, airflow is wonderful to help feed thr IC