Converting the Lamco Boost Gauge

Okay, I'm going to get straight to it. This mod did not turn out as well as I had hoped. Yes, it bridges the colors displayed on the dials, but it definately lowers the visibility of the boost gauge needle during night time driving. However, you get used to the low light after a few weeks, and the boost gauge will be legible again.

If you plan on taking this boost gauge apart, I would suggest you solder on some new brighter LEDs to make it worth your while. I've read online that people have done this mod with a brighter LED, and it's supposed to look a lot better. I might try this when I have some more time.

Another note is that if you have the older STIs, your Lamco boost gauge will be illuminated by a #2723 bulb with a blue cover. You just simply remove the gauge from the pod, and twist out the light bulb.

For the 2006+ Subaru STI, our Lamco gauges are illuminated by a tiny yellow LED, soldered meticulously onto a small circuit board. I decided to use plastic colored overlays to change the color of the LED, because this is 100% reversible. It is held on by some clear silicone, which can stay on the LED for years to come, and can be easily peeled off if you want to revert to stock. I plan on using this boost gauge for a while, but possibly change to nicer gauges when I go Stage 2.

All in all, this mod was a fun and free mod for me. However, to say that this mod was worth the time is completely in the eye of the beholder. Eitherway, now you know how to do this, have fun!

Altezza Tail lights

Altezza style tail lights has become one of the major exterior modifications to many car enthusiasts. Originating from Toyota/Lexus, these lights are best explained as cylindrical sectioned off lights in a clear lens housing. These lights are very popular in the JDM scene, but has also slowly made its way into the EUDM, and the USDM scene.

Unfortunately, I'm not one of those people who like the look of them. I can accept them on cars that come stock with Altezza style tail lights, but sadly not on my STI. I wouldn't shoot off an arm or a leg to replace them though, but I much rather prefer something from the 04-05 WRX STIs.

The lights on the left are simple, clean, and functions without looking too flashy. The lights on the right are my stock tail lights. Although I have seen worse, I would still prefer the 05 style.

This is really just an idea I've been bouncing around in my head. Obviously everything costs money, and the 05 tail lights aren't exactly cheap either. People sell a used set for $200 a pair. They know most 06-07 STI owners prefer to switch to the 04-05 tail lights. Supply and demand is a bitch.

With that being said, I know everyone is entitled to their own tastes, so let's make this more fun. I always want to reach out to you guys, and I always enjoy hearing your opinions, both good or bad =D. You've seen enough of my pictures, and videos to really know what this car looks like. Question of the day: "If you owned a black Subaru WRX STI, which tail lights would you prefer on your car?"

Feel free to leave a comment in the comment section of the blog, or leave a message on the Facebook page.

IMPULSE goes Stage 1

I don't know what it is about my hunger for torque, but the first time I sat in an STI, the torque was the most memorable feeling. Ever since then, I have been craving that torque thrust. The Cobb Accessport is just a small step towards my goal. With the Stage 1 tune loaded, I will be seeing gains around 13% more HP and 17% more torque! It feels incredible, the power band feels smoother, and the boost kicks in around 200 RPM sooner. Leaves me with a grin on my face everytime I kick in the boost. The Cobb Accessport costs around $600, and frankly there isn't a mod out there that can deliver the same power output that the Cobb Accessport can for a similar price.

Stage 1 increases the stock boost from 14.5PSI to around 16-17PSI at peak.

This little gadget has a lot of features. Even now, I am experimenting with different options. I will be shooting a video on some of the other functions later on in the season. Oh by the way, this is the first video made with the new microphone. Working pretty well for the outside shots in my opinion.

Installing the Rally Armors

Presenting the Rally Armor Urethane Mud Flaps. These are a must have for a rally car like the STI. Rally Armor also makes skid plates, mostly things for cars that play around in off-road conditions. These look really good on our cars because it also makes the car look slightly wider, which adds an aggressive stance to the car. Rally Armors make these mud flaps for Subarus, Mitsubishis, and Mazdas.

There's not much to say on the install, everything important is in the video. It was quite a simple installation, and it took me around two hours in total. The product is well priced, looks good, and the quality is great as well.

If you own a Subaru, I would recommend that you get a set of these. I can't wait to test them out in the snow!