Next Step - Tune Stage 1 or FP/OP
 

Hey guys. So currently my car is set up as;

Drop In Filter
Axel-Back Exhaust

In your opinion, should my next step be getting a tune for this setup or should I buy the Front Pipe/Over-Pipe and then get the tune?

Keep in mind I do things yearly. So if I get the bolt on parts I won't get a tune for about 1-2 years and vice-versa.

I'm somewhat leaning maybe tune and over-pipe since the over pipe is not that expensive.
Or just tune since it seems to improve revs and the dip a little.

Shouldn't need a tune with the current setup. If you went with a header and front pipe/overpipe then yes we would probably recommend a tune.

I would do a tune, front and overpipe will increase noise without really any additional gains. Plus not to mention with a tune you get the cool little features like map switch, flat foot.. keep in mind the least you have to screw and unscrew the more your car retain its new feel. Also getting bolt ons without tuning basically robs you of any little power you could make, that's my personal opinion. Enjoy the car

What are your end goals? Sound or gains (or both?)

IMO when I added a front pipe, I didn't really feel anything but extra growl and a little top end oomph

The biggest difference for me was flashing an OTS tune that I've refined a bit, is much more worth it to me

The only thing an over-pipe will do is lighten your wallet at this point

Tune will be the best bang for your buck. Over pipe does little to nothing, as drew stated. Front pipe as well won't make a massive difference, especially for the cost of a half decent one.

Plus, with the tune, you can optimize it to your current set up, then optimize it for your future set ups.

Okay thank you very much guys, you've confirmed and answered all my questions :)

I'll be going for the tune as the next option!

I bought an OFT for the 2014 season. Ran the Stage 1 tune with no modifications. Used it for data logging and check on oil temperature.

This season I installed a header and since I had the OFT I flashed the Stage 2 tune.

I'm not sure how many maps are provided if you go to a tuner that works with ecutek.

If you have decided on the OFT, get that first. Then get a header next season. I wouldn't bother with an OP/FP without a header.

If you go with a tuner on ecutek, save your money and get a header and tune next year.

Didn't notice much difference with my catless front pipe and cat back to be honest.

I know you said you're going just with the tune, but for future reference, the OP is a pain in the ass to change. I'd only do it if you were doing a header at the same time, considering an OP will give you limited benefit.

Filter, header, tune, op, fp. In that order. End of list.

I don't know why people waste money on a 3 year old platform doing things in reverse and for more sound instead of power.

This.

@Mr.Impreza

As far as N.A. power goes, the roadmap has come to focus. Doing the above nets at least 190WHP (even without the OP/FP). Add e85 (on OFT) to get to about 205WHP.

If the owner doesn't like the look of the stock exhaust, then add tips for $50, buy a catback later.

Hey guys, So i quoted all 3 of you because I'm mainly going to then ask one question.

I have a greddy sp elite axel back, so with the header it shouldn't be too loud correct?

Also, Dan, how is the in car noise level with the header?

Define too loud

Honestly I think that with the SP Elite it will be pretty mild. My bet is that some catbacks will be louder than that combo.
@BatStig has a Catted El header and Perrin CBE. Doesn't sound any different than just a CBE.

On the other hand, @Kazuya has a Tomei UEL and a full catless headerback and it's very loud

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