Training WRX (2nd Edition) is the ideal book to learn the basics about Impreza WRXs and their modification - it's especially suited to the US market, where people are relatively new to the super Subie.
This 219 page soft-cover book is credited to Nick Warne, but copyrighted to both Nick Warne and Sydney's MRT Performance; given MRT's involvement, it's no surprise that many of the references throughout the book are to MRT products. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but there isn't a wide representation of all the performance products on the market. There are also a few unobtrusive ads scattered throughout, which are mainly MRT related.
In this second addition there have been many updates; most importantly, the Version VII 'new age' WRX has been added to the scheme of things. As we said, this makes it ideal for the Stateside WRX newcomers. The book is written in a fairly light-hearted manner and you'll find plenty of illustrations from cover-to-cover - even though they are all in black-and-white and many are quite poor quality (large pixels, poor focus, flash flares, shadows, that kind of thing).
The first three of the book's nineteen chapters are dedicated to the Preface, Foreword and Introduction - these give you a background of some of the authors. Before stepping into the meaty content, there's also a 'Measurement and Price Conversion' chapter and a disclaimer for liability - an essential inclusion in today's 'who can I sue' environment!
'Why this Book Was Written' is a slightly odd chapter heading, but it outlines the goals of Training WRX. It's a bit jumpy, covering topics from 'Which WRX is Best' to, 'Modification Approaches' to 'Dynamometers', but it's all valid information, nonetheless.
Pushing on, the 'WRX Model History' outlines the main differences between Version I to Version VII Impreza GT/WRXs and STi models. The main running changes are included, but don't expect any real nitty-gritty stuff, like boost pressures, spring rates, kerb mass or anything like that. Oh, and you'll also find out why it's now a good idea to ditch the MY-designations in favour of Japanese 'Versions'. Note that we did pick one error; the book suggests that the MY99 (aka Version V) was the first model in Australia to get 160kW. Wrong! It's the MY97 (Version III) series...
One of Australia's leading suspension gurus - Jim Gurief from Whiteline - obviously played a major part in the very useful chapter on Suspension. He talks about the purpose of suspension components, comments on the WRX's suspension specifically, and makes recommendations for Basic Suspension Mods through to Serious Suspension Mods. Topics covered include springs, dampers, swaybars, swaybar links, castor, camber, toe, tyres, bushes, adjustable strut tops, adjustable rear control arms and chassis bracing. There is also a modified version of a magazine story on racetrack testing of mods to a GC-series WRX, followed by mods to the current Whiteline Version VII WRX.
The chapter 'Stopping the WRX' describes the basics of how brakes and ABS work and makes suggestions for mods, including pads, fluid, discs, hoses, master cylinder brace and all-new monster brake upgrades. Each area is covered in a couple of paragraphs, with comments 'making it real' for WRX owners.
And now we move on to making p-o-w-e-r...
First the book looks at the restriction through the standard WRX models' headers, exhaust and air intake (no actual pressure drop figures are provided). The all-import turbo collector is discussed in reasonable length, with discussion on separate wastegate-turbine pipes and splitters. Again, though, there are no real hard figures to support the claims being made. The basics of 'the rest' of a good exhaust is then outlined, and there's mention of the effectiveness of modified headers.
The standard air intake layout is described across each model, with three different approach to modifications suggested. One of these is the 'Resonator-ectimy' (with a step-by-step how-to), and a discussion on cold air intakes and pods - well, cold air intakes versus pods. The conclusion 'Why the Pod Wins' - despite the scientific explanation given - could be hotly contested... There's also reference to the notion that oiled filters ruin airflow meters.
'Engine Management' teaches you how the WRX system works and introduces you to its sensors. The features of the "often underestimated standard ECU" are outlined and you're shown how to access the Read Memory mode, System Check mode and Clear Memory mode. 'Engine Management Improvements' discusses the pros and cons of a chip, 'supplementary controllers' (including EBCs) and replacement ECUs (citing the MRT Link and MoTeC systems as examples). Approximate prices are included for each approach.
Chapter thirteen - 'Turbochargers' - talks about how turbos work, their problems, thermal management, detonation and more. The huge difference in turbo sizes across the standard WRX/STi range is discussed, along with maximum recommended boost and power figures. Turbo Options shows you the VF-series and Garrett turbos that'll bolt 'straight on', with a brief description of what they're like to drive in relation to driveability and top-end power. There's also a very cost-effective turbo-swap suggestion for those with a Version III onward.
ICs and BOVs get a mention next, starting with a brief description of the stockie intercoolers and the pros and cons of front-mounts versus top-mounts. This covers specifics such as bar-and-plate and tube-and-fin, installation trade-offs and cost. Water sprays are mentioned also, with specific claims to their improvement of intercooler efficiency. The role and problems of the standard blow-off valves are then revealed, with aftermarket alternatives assessed with focus on their effect on mixtures and sound. The chapter wraps up with "in any car with less than a full-house monster tune engine, an aftermarket BOV is not really necessary".
Delving further, 'Engine Tuning' describes the differences inside different model EJ20 turbo motors and how to build a 'monster'. It addresses prep of the bottom-end (including strokers), heads, cams, valvetrain and many of the incidentals along the way. Sump, fuel delivery, running-in and a 'war story' are also talked about.
The WRX's drivetrain - its notorious drivetrain! - steps up with first a description of the flywheel and the advantages/disadvantages of lightened or steel 'wheels. The clutch - which is "not an indestructible unit" - is mentioned next, in terms of wear and slip. The aftermarket solutions are then listed, citing puck clutches, uprated pressure plates and Kevlar friction material. The gearbox itself - and its evolution across the models - is described and there's a telltale heading 'Why Your Gearbox Broke' (it still doesn't explain why we at AutoSpeed have munched so many of these gearboxes in the past, though!). The steps to gearbox improvements are then presented - everything from regularly replacing the fluid, to fitting heavy-duty GB mounts to a full dog box.
The standard front, centre and rear differentials are next explained and there's an outline of the tuning options available - a clutch-type front and rear LSD and a heavy-duty centre diff. With these fitted, the resulting handling characteristics are described and the approximate costs are provided.
Less technical are the chapters talking about instruments, ICE, seats, harnesses, security, body kits, maintenance and wheels and tyres (though there is discussion on the optimum tyre pressures).
Heading toward the thin bit at the back there's a few pages dedicated to track days. Read the story of a "track addict" and learn how to prepare your Rex for circuit work - the legal minimum requirements, 'proper' track mods and all the bits and pieces you're likely to need - specifically brakes. Add a Glossary, tables for transmissions and chassis code nomenclature and you're done!
From cover to cover, WRX Training 2nd Edition is a useful book. However, if you're already a WRX loon that's been sucking up info at every opportunity - like us! - there mightn't be all that much too learn from it. Still, it's a great one-stop modification reference.
And cost? Well, we reckon it's just acceptable at AUD$55 (including GST in Australia) through AutoSpeed's on-line shop - visit Technical Books.
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