STi Replica Strut Bars (04/03/04)

The strut bars on my wagon made a noticeable improvement in cahssis rigidity, so I decided to do the same thing with the STi.  I wanted the STi brand strut bars, but did not want to pay $300 for each one.  Replica bars can be had on ebay for $100 for the set and are identical in appearance and function.

Here is the front strut bar.  The Whiteline on my WRX had some side to side adjustability where these do not.  I started by moutning the pink collars first and then lined the bar up.  Leave the collars somewhat loose so they move around a bit until you get the bar lined up.

In order to fit the bar, the bracket that holds the AC line must be moved down one notch.  Once this is done the bar will fit and you can bolt it in place.  With the bar tight, tighten the collar bolts down to 14 ft-lbs and you're done.

Here is the final product installed.  The front end feels a bit crisper when turning in and there is more feedback during cornering.

I installed a bar in the rear too, but did not have my camera with me when I did it.  It is quite simple to do however.  First, remove the rear seats.  There are two 12mm bolts for the lower part and three for the upper part.  With both halves removed, you can see the strut tops, but won't be able to get a socket in there.  In order to get the socket in, remove the seatbelt tensioner/retractor by removing the bolt and sliding the unit out.  Then remove the strut top bolts like you did up front and put the collars in.  Then line up the bar in the trunk and tighten everything up.  Again, the strut tops will be 14 ft-lbs.  Then put the seatbelt retractor back in and reattach the seats.  Make sure the upper part of the seat hooks on correctly before you bolt it back down.  I'll put a pic of the finished rear bar soon.

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