Another ACE headers issue
 

MY18 BRZ with less than 25000kms, fitted recently ACE A350 headers and Berk catted frontpipe.
I adjusted the aluminum under-tray with a hammer but after few kms of driving I realized headers rub against the subframe when I turn on the engine (engine moves slightly to the right side), when I accelerate from stop, and at high speed left corners.
I think also overpipe rubs the front sway bar, but may be is my idea as the space between those two was no more than 1cm, can't check it now due to covid19 lockdown.

My question is are the STI engine mounts and Whiteline gearbox insert enough to solve the subframe (and overpipe) rubbing problem or should I buy harder mounts or what else?

A shop told me that the STi mounts actually lower the engine slightly. Not sure if that's true or not but it could make the problem worse.

I'm also running the A350 and have the STi mounts sitting on the shelf. I had to hammer the engine cover in a few spots to stop the runners buzzing on it.

It is really unfortunate that the headers seem to have a number of design flaws despite the price point and performance advantages. I've had a bunch of issues with the 4-2 OP flange bolts coming loose and disconnecting on track. And although it seems not everyone has the issue—which already raises eyebrows in my book—the requirement to basically destroy your engine cover to make them fit seems a bit silly.

If they weren't so awesome I'd have chucked them long ago :D

STi mounts and banging two spots on the engine tray flat = no rattling whatsoever.

I didn't have any issues with mine, but I also have the CS400 and the Beatrush under panel. My only issue with the whole design is the 4-2 over pipe design. It was such a pain to tighten the bolts.

I'd anything the sti mounts should raise the engine a little more than stock.

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They recommend stiffer engine mounts with the ace. Sti should be the same height as the standard. It still might require banging out some of the engine tray.

I'd prefer the STI mounts in every case due to OEM quality and minimal NVH increase, my questioning is if they are hard enough to minimize engine movement or the ACE need harder mounts like Perrin and Cusco.
But as most of you use STI mounts with the A350 they will be Ok!

By the way are TRD and STI engine mounts the same exactly product made by Subaru, it's easier for me to find the TRD ones due to covid19 lockdown?

I'm running ACE350 with stock engine mounts and have no rubbing. I did hammer out the skid plate though. Where exactly are you getting the rubbing on the headers?

Overpipe to subframe...at least, I have to check also the connection overpipe to frontpipe as the rubbing comes somewhere there, I did hammer the skid plate too!

No issues running Ace and Sti mounts. Other than clearancing the cover.

Looking forward to these headers too. Regarding hammering the skidplate, do you have just to flatten the bumps or do you have to bend it?



They are exactly the same.

I just flatten the bumps in a way they became the opposite direction dents

I have just installed Perrin mounts with Ace headers. Havent driven yet as I still have car on jackstands for other projects. But I will say I didn't have to remove the headers to install on my car, just jacked up the motor from the oil pan. I did remove the bolt holding the front pipe to the trans mount. Stock ones right side came out the front, left side came out the rear. Im going to say fairly easy and can be done in your driveway
https://i.imgur.com/P9BylGt.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/zoyVGH8.jpg

Plus 2lbs lighter off the front of the car!
https://i.imgur.com/zGiUFp1.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/sEN6JiZ.jpg