New pics,same setup 9-27-11:2010Forester suspension on my 08 WRX Hatch

[Tommyswrx]

So I've just purchased 2010 Forester struts and springs for my 08 WRX Hatch. Are there any other parts I'll need for the swap? I'm pretty sure I'll need adjustable rear trailing arms to recenter the rear wheels. And I know I'll need an alignment. Are there any problems that could come up while doing this swap? Has anyone done this yet on the 08+? I've seached every Impreza and Forester forum and didn't find anyone.

[KeyserSoze]

So I've just purchased 2010 Forester struts and springs for my 08 WRX Hatch. Are there any other parts I'll need for the swap? I'm pretty sure I'll need adjustable rear trailing arms to recenter the rear wheels. And I know I'll need an alignment. Are there any problems that could come up while doing this swap? Has anyone done this yet on the 08+? I've seached every Impreza and Forester forum and didn't find anyone.

Sorry I can't provide any info, just questions. How much of a lift are you expecting? I just bought an impreza yesterday, and am looking to add some height. What adj rear trailing arms are you using?

- Miles

[Tommyswrx]

Well, I'm guessing about a 2.5"-3". Hopefully 3". The guy I bought them from just put 08 WRX suspension on his 2010 Forester and he didn't measure before and after but he said it lookied like 2.5"-3". Then I'm gonna buy the Subtle Solutions 1" spacers. That should be about a 4" lift which is enough for me. I'm most likely going to get Megan Racing Trailing arms since they're about $200-300 less than the rest. Then I'll get an alignment and it should be good. I might need some camber bolts but I guess I'll find out after everything else is in place. I'm not going to be doing major off-roading or rally or auto-x. I just want to sit higher and have better ground clearance for when I drive on the beach and stuff like that. Maybe in the future I'll look for a taller tire too but I just got new tires so that will have to wait.

[Guero]

The big issue you're going to run into is your CV joints are going to start complaining and may fail prematurely with that much lift. Another issue is going to be a lot of positive camber. I honestly think you'll be satisfied with the Forester lift alone.

You should document the swap with a lot of really good pictures, I don't think anyone has done the full strut and spring Forester suspension yet! I think you will be able to do it, but may run into obstacles you need to overcome. Sounds like you're headed in the right direction though. I was going to swap to an older Outback suspension but it required modification to the top hats, so I just got huge tires and the Subtle spacers.

[Tommyswrx]

The big issue you're going to run into is your CV joints are going to start complaining and may fail prematurely with that much lift. Another issue is going to be a lot of positive camber. I honestly think you'll be satisfied with the Forester lift alone.

You should document the swap with a lot of really good pictures, I don't think anyone has done the full strut and spring Forester suspension yet! I think you will be able to do it, but may run into obstacles you need to overcome. Sounds like you're headed in the right direction though. I was going to swap to an older Outback suspension but it required modification to the top hats, so I just got huge tires and the Subtle spacers.
I've thought about the CV joints, but so many people have lowered Foresters with WRX struts and spring with no issues, I don't see why going in the opposite direction would be a problem. I'm no suspension expert but that's how I'm seeing it. Anyway, if I'm happy with that I'll forget the 1" spacers unless the CV's look like they can handle it, then why not? Positive camber can be fix with an alignment and camber bolts if necessary. After all is said and done, I'll decide on wheels and tires.:headbang:

[Tommyswrx]

Well I finally decided to be smart and just go to my Subaru dealer and tell them what I'm doing and ask every question I could think of. They told me everything I need to know, like how to fix the CV axle issues, camber issues, and rear wheel centering. Its all factory parts. My car will be basically identical to a Forester underneath. ZERO issues to worry about. This is basically a teaser because I'm not going to disclose all the parts needed until I'm done. But I'll take alot of pics during the build and let eveyone know whats needed. It'll probably cost me around $1K. Your costs may be different depending on how much you find the parts for. It'll be a 4"-5" lift.

[pointless]

can't wait for pictures

[HeathyVT]

Looking forward to the pics/progress reports!

[Cambo]

+1 ^^^

[Guero]

Gonna be sweet! You know, you should ask on the forester forums if anyone wants to do a full trade.

[justincredible]

The '10 Forester has 9" of clearance.
The Impreza is a little lighter, so should sit a touch higher.
I don't think you'll need the 1" extra afterwards.

[bue car]

they done yet?

[Tommyswrx]

My 08 WRX on 09 Forester Struts. Right at 3.5" of lift. Soon it will have every other suspension component from the Forester which is quite a bit more than you might think, but the rest is all sitting on my floor going on Saturday. Plus I'm getting Subtle Solutions 1" spacers for more lift. :banana::banana:
From this:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0154.jpg
To this:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0246.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0247.jpg
And the inside for fun, 09 shift boot has since been installed:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0112.jpg
Parts yet to be installed:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0254.jpg

[mulletxdriftxx]

is the rear wheel going to get moved back?

[LarLar]

My 08 WRX on 09 Forester Struts. Right at 3.5" of lift. Soon it will have every other suspension component from the Forester which is quite a bit more than you might think, but the rest is all sitting on my floor going on Saturday. Plus I'm getting Subtle Solutions 1" spacers for more lift. :banana::banana:
From this:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0154.jpg
To this:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0246.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0247.jpg
And the inside for fun, 09 shift boot has since been installed:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0112.jpg
Parts yet to be installed:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0254.jpg

what are you trying to accomplish? seems like alot of lift for a small car. are you using this for rally cross? seems you just increased the chances of rolling a lot! i'm just curious of the intentions of such a lifted impreza would be?

[Tommyswrx]

Why, would I do this? Lots of reasons. To be different, to be able to go over different types of terrain rather than just paved roads, I don't want some big SUV or truck with crappy gas mileage but I do like their ride height. To me it makes it a more usable all around vehicle rather than just a street car. And yes, I have all the parts to recenter the rear wheel.

[LarLar]

Why, would I do this? Lots of reasons. To be different, to be able to go over different types of terrain rather than just paved roads, I don't want some big SUV or truck with crappy gas mileage but I do like their ride height. To me it makes it a more usable all around vehicle rather than just a street car. And yes, I have all the parts to recenter the rear wheel.

okay. i wasn't trying to sound rude by any means. it just seemed like a huge lift for a car, plus you plan on adding 1" spacers as well. so thats close to 5" of increased ride height. thats huge! i used to have my 97 obs on 05 obs suspension which gave it close to two inches of lift. and i felt a HUGE difference in the handling/driving characteristics. including increased body roll in heavy cornering, seems a little unsafe to me. but like you said, its very different and probably hasn't been done in many cases. i'm looking forward to seeing what it looks like when everything is said and done regardless...

[Tommyswrx]

Thanks, my lift now is 3.5" exactly. Then will come the 1" spacers. Just to let people know, the stock rear sway bar will no longer fit without forester rear end links, I think. I'll most likely get aftermarket front and rear. I don't believe anyone else has done this swap on an 08+ yet. Maybe the struts but not all the other bits that make the 09+ forester different underneath like I have.

[bue car]

its different, i think its too much already. gl

here to see more progress.

[Tommyswrx]

Here are some daylight pics:
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0262.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0260.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0256.jpg

[x-ception]

That looks awesome. I know you said the rest was going on soon but... It will look much better once you get those rear wheels pulled back a little. But I approve. lol

[LanceDa]

Looks awesome. I agree with ception. Once you move those back tires back, and maybe get some meatier tires on there it is going to look mean :headbang:

-Lance

[Tommy Gun Rally]

I guess I'll be the first to say it. Why didn't you just get a Forester? That lift looks dangerous.

[Tommyswrx]

I guess I'll be the first to say it. Why didn't you just get a Forester? That lift looks dangerous.
Your not the first, so thats an easy question. I don't like anything about the Forester...except the ride height. All 09+ XT's are automatic, the interior colors are crap, its bigger, heavier, and its not going to turn heads. But a jacked up WRX will, even if a person doesn't like, they're still gonna look and say " you don't see that everyday.
If you haven't been able to tell by the pics, I'm doing this lift the right way. I have ALL the Forester suspension components, not just the struts. And when I go to 15" wheels they will have a 35mm offset for a wider track and I'll be getting aftermarket sway bars front and rear. There won't be anything unsafe about it.

[Tommy Gun Rally]

If I'm not mistaken, the suspension pieces are not the only difference between the two cars right? I could be wrong. That back wheel is why I said it looks off.

Your car, I dont care either way, just hate for you to go into some snap oversteer situation or something weird when you get into a corner. If that does happen you can bet your insurance company will be like .....uh......no, we're not paying on that claim.

[Tommyswrx]

I guess I wasn't clear. EVERYTHING THAT MAKES THE FORESTER CHASIS DIFFERENT FROM THE WRX, I HAVE IT AND ITS GOING ON MY CAR. THE REAR WHEEL WILL GO BACK TO NORMAL. AND IT WILL BE ALIGNED TO FACTORY SPECIFICATIONS.

[Tommy Gun Rally]

So, why didn't you get a Forester again?

haha

[Suzuki]

get some smaller rims and meaty tires :thumbsup:

then paint it real-tree camo

[GClark]

Yup needs some Grabbers and she'll be perfect! Looking good.

[Tommyswrx]

Yup needs some Grabbers and she'll be perfect! Looking good.
:headbang:Thats the plan

[upstate2.5i]

Can't wait to see it finished, I love it!

[MadMax11]

I love this! Please keep us updated!

[R22B]

I dont understand why everyone is giving him **** about it. It looks awesome, other than the rear wheel but he has the parts to center the wheels up.

He just needs some aggressive tires and he's set.

[Tommyswrx]

Its funny, I thought when I posted these pics up on Nasioc I would get flamed because everyone over there is all about being Hellaflush or whatever but they all enjoyed seeing it and there was even a guy with an 08 Sti that wants the full parts list so he can do it. Of all people, I thought Dirtyimpreza would be all about it. If anyone wants a full parts list I'm going to post it later today.

[dirtynewsubie]

i think your car is awesome and will look even cooler when the wheels are centered and you have A/T's on it!:guitarist: And dosent anyone understand that forrester suspension will handle like a forrester and not roll over if you turn hard? Dont listen to their nonsence man, i would love to have your car

[upstate2.5i]

what are your plans for tires and wheels??? My lifted 09 seemed maxed out on the 215/60/16 Geolanders, and it doesn't even seem like with more lift a bigger tire would work.

[AWD>FWD]

It's not that we don't like it, we just don't see the practical application of it... A lot of us like to go fast off-road (rally-cross, stage rally, or just playing around on logging roads), and in a setup like yours, the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well and may be a lot more prone to rollovers. Most obstacles that require that much ground clearance usually need to be crossed at speeds slower than a Subaru 1st gear is designed to travel at (no transfer case crawler gears like a truck). Also, if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck, prepare for the thin body panels to get dented very easily.

It's cool, but most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car and then keep the heavy-duty offroad mayhem to an old school Subaru, which have dual-range transfer cases and thicker body panels.

[Tommyswrx]

what are your plans for tires and wheels??? My lifted 09 seemed maxed out on the 215/60/16 Geolanders, and it doesn't even seem like with more lift a bigger tire would work.

i'm going to use15x7 with a 35mm offset. Then I'll measure for the biggest tire I can fit

[Tommyswrx]

It's not that we don't like it, we just don't see the practical application of it... A lot of us like to go fast off-road (rally-cross, stage rally, or just playing around on logging roads), and in a setup like yours, the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well and may be a lot more prone to rollovers. Most obstacles that require that much ground clearance usually need to be crossed at speeds slower than a Subaru 1st gear is designed to travel at (no transfer case crawler gears like a truck). Also, if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck, prepare for the thin body panels to get dented very easily.

It's cool, but most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car and then keep the heavy-duty offroad mayhem to an old school Subaru, which have dual-range transfer cases and thicker body panels.
Wow, where do I begin on you? Did you not read the thread? It's only 3 pages. Or maybe you're just extremely unclear about the similarities and differences between the Impreza and Forester. They are built on the EXACT SAME platform. THE EXACT SAME. THEY'RE IDENTICAL, with the exception of taller struts, subframe spacers and a handful of other braces, nuts and bolts. Thats how they achieve the lift/ride height on the Forester. I HAVE EVERY LAST PART, NUT, BOLT AND PIECE THAT MAKES FORESTER DIFFERENT FROM MY CAR.
Now lets really breakdown what you said.
You said "the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well"...:kyle:
There's nothing unstock about it. It's exactly stock. Stock forester now. It will "perform" just like a stock Forester. Maybe better.
You said..."more prone to rollovers.":cuckoo:
How is that exactly? I'm not a physics expert but it will be less prone to rollovers compared to a Forester because the body is lighter and not as long, wide or tall.
You said "obstacles that require that much ground clearance" :shocked:
My ground clearance is the same as the Forester.
You said " if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck"...:shock:
WTF! The word "truck" hasn't been used in the 3 pages of this thread.
You said"most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car"...:jack:
Have you been on NASIOC anytime in the past 10 years? "Most"(99.99999%) people take the new Impreza (and previous year Impreza's)and lower them, or completely slam them.
Let me spell it out for you. You see, I did actual research. I scoured all the subaru forums then I went to the dealer and told them what I wanted to do. They printed out the schematics for the WRX and Forester suspensions and pointed out everything that makes them different. Then they printed out a list of all those parts. Then I purchased all those parts. Simple.
Geez I'm tired:waving:
P.s. To all the others who posted, Thank you. Sometime in the next week I will do a full write up with as many pics as possible.

[RS MN]

Wow, where do I begin on you? Did you not read the thread? It's only 3 pages. Or maybe you're just extremely unclear about the similarities and differences between the Impreza and Forester. They are built on the EXACT SAME platform. THE EXACT SAME. THEY'RE IDENTICAL, with the exception of taller struts, subframe spacers and a handful of other braces, nuts and bolts. Thats how they achieve the lift/ride height on the Forester. I HAVE EVERY LAST PART, NUT, BOLT AND PIECE THAT MAKES FORESTER DIFFERENT FROM MY CAR.
Now lets really breakdown what you said.
You said "the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well"...:kyle:
There's nothing unstock about it. It's exactly stock. Stock forester now. It will "perform" just like a stock Forester. Maybe better.
You said..."more prone to rollovers.":cuckoo:
How is that exactly? I'm not a physics expert but it will be less prone to rollovers compared to a Forester because the body is lighter and not as long, wide or tall.
You said "obstacles that require that much ground clearance" :shocked:
My ground clearance is the same as the Forester.
You said " if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck"...:shock:
WTF! The word "truck" hasn't been used in the 3 pages of this thread.
You said"most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car"...:jack:
Have you been on NASIOC anytime in the past 10 years? "Most"(99.99999%) people take the new Impreza (and previous year Impreza's)and lower them, or completely slam them.
Geez I'm tired:waving:


hey now man, you seem to be the one acting like hes on NASIOC, AWD>FWD just simply stated his opinion, he didnt say what you were doing was wrong or stupid or anything like that, he just said he didnt understand, now slow your roll a bit and relax.

i think this is really cool, and the first GE/GH subie ive seen with forester suspension, i hope the caster in the rear gets set to where it should be when you put the rest of the suspension bits on (like the older chassis).

i think it looks a bit weird now, with the stock wheels and tire size, but it should look bad ass when you get the bigger setup on.

keep it up!

[Tommyswrx]

what are your plans for tires and wheels??? My lifted 09 seemed maxed out on the 215/60/16 Geolanders, and it doesn't even seem like with more lift a bigger tire would work.
As far as tires go, you have to look at the outside diameter of the tire, not the xxx/xx/xx of the tire. The stock tires have an outside diameter of roughly 27.5". Its hard to go much bigger than that because there isn't much clearance between the tire and the left and right side of the fender. The only way to get a bigger sidewall is to get a smaller wheel size. Thats why I'm going with 15" wheels.

[Tommyswrx]

hey now man, you seem to be the one acting like hes on NASIOC, AWD>FWD just simply stated his opinion, he didnt say what you were doing was wrong or stupid or anything like that, he just said he didnt understand, now slow your roll a bit and relax.

i think this is really cool, and the first GE/GH subie ive seen with forester suspension, i hope the caster in the rear gets set to where it should be when you put the rest of the suspension bits on (like the older chassis).

i think it looks a bit weird now, with the stock wheels and tire size, but it should look bad ass when you get the bigger setup on.

keep it up!
I knew that would make me come off like a jerk but the whole build is a really simple process. And I didn't want anyone to think that doing this to there car is in anyway unsafe. Its all done with factory parts with zero fabrication.
BTW thanks for the interest and I'll definitely keep you guys updated

[UP2MTNS]

All 09+ XT's are automatic, the interior colors are crap, its bigger, heavier, and its not going to turn heads. But a jacked up WRX will, even if a person doesn't like, they're still gonna look and say " you don't see that everyday.


THIS is why he's doing it, so any logic/reason goes out the window. Not saying he's being illogical (done plenty of research...lots of meaning behind the madness that a big lift on a WRX!)...but plenty of us have done **** with/in our cars only for the soul single reason of 'because I wanted to.'


I will say BE CAREFUL on the highway....w/o sways that thing will float like a boat (and not in a good way), and with aftermarket sways (that will be much stiffer than stock)....who knows when/how easily the rear will get away from you.


Personally, I'd do all this before I bought a Forrester too....don't like'm.

[Bubba02sti]

Wow, where do I begin on you? Did you not read the thread? It's only 3 pages. Or maybe you're just extremely unclear about the similarities and differences between the Impreza and Forester. They are built on the EXACT SAME platform. THE EXACT SAME. THEY'RE IDENTICAL, with the exception of taller struts, subframe spacers and a handful of other braces, nuts and bolts. Thats how they achieve the lift/ride height on the Forester. I HAVE EVERY LAST PART, NUT, BOLT AND PIECE THAT MAKES FORESTER DIFFERENT FROM MY CAR.
Now lets really breakdown what you said.
You said "the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well"...:kyle:
There's nothing unstock about it. It's exactly stock. Stock forester now. It will "perform" just like a stock Forester. Maybe better.
You said..."more prone to rollovers.":cuckoo:
How is that exactly? I'm not a physics expert but it will be less prone to rollovers compared to a Forester because the body is lighter and not as long, wide or tall.
You said "obstacles that require that much ground clearance" :shocked:
My ground clearance is the same as the Forester.
You said " if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck"...:shock:
WTF! The word "truck" hasn't been used in the 3 pages of this thread.
You said"most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car"...:jack:
Have you been on NASIOC anytime in the past 10 years? "Most"(99.99999%) people take the new Impreza (and previous year Impreza's)and lower them, or completely slam them.
Let me spell it out for you. You see, I did actual research. I scoured all the subaru forums then I went to the dealer and told them what I wanted to do. They printed out the schematics for the WRX and Forester suspensions and pointed out everything that makes them different. Then they printed out a list of all those parts. Then I purchased all those parts. Simple.
Geez I'm tired:waving:
P.s. To all the others who posted, Thank you. Sometime in the next week I will do a full write up with as many pics as possible.

Calm down man.

There are some things your wrong about. The impreza body is lighter then the that of the forester. THIS will make you more prone to rolling over. Yes the suspension geometry is so far from "stock" because the forester suspension is designed for an entirely different vehicle. Just because a car rides on the same chassis as another doesn't mean that they are the same. The ground clearance is cool and all but not for me. We have a lot of people here that have lifted their subies using the forester suspensions and they have had great success and then some have had incidents. So if it has worked in the past there isn't any reason why it wouldnt work now. I like your ambition of tackling this. And I appreciate your attention to detail. I wish you luck on your build and i hope you have great success with they way it handles. and up2mtns is right. THIS IS EXACTLY WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO. Keep us updated man. And please stop acting like a nasioc idiot. We really don't appreciate that here.

[GClark]

It's not that we don't like it, we just don't see the practical application of it... A lot of us like to go fast off-road (rally-cross, stage rally, or just playing around on logging roads), and in a setup like yours, the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well and may be a lot more prone to rollovers. Most obstacles that require that much ground clearance usually need to be crossed at speeds slower than a Subaru 1st gear is designed to travel at (no transfer case crawler gears like a truck). Also, if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck, prepare for the thin body panels to get dented very easily.

It's cool, but most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car and then keep the heavy-duty offroad mayhem to an old school Subaru, which have dual-range transfer cases and thicker body panels.


I lifted my Subaru to fit bigger tires. I wanted bigger tires so I can have more clearance offroad and better grip. What's not to understand? This is first time I've seen di.com members get upset that someone was LIFTING their Subaru. Not everyone wants a rally car, not everyone wants to go fast on dirt roads. I have had great success offroading my Subaru on jeep trails with no dented body panels to speak of. Also my car hasn't rolled over! Crazy huh! Never thought I'd have to say "Haters gonna hate" on DI. :roll:

[Tommyswrx]

I totally get what all you guys are saying but the problems that will arise from lifting my car are inevitable as with any vehicle that gets lifted. I'm taking every precaution thats humanly possible. The rear sway bar will go back on soon. Its the same as the forester just with longer end links which I'm getting.
GClark I agree with your final statement and thanks.

[upstate2.5i]

So what was the final bill on the suspension parts if you don't mind saying?

[Tommyswrx]

So what was the final bill on the suspension parts if you don't mind saying?
The total if you buy everything new from the dealer was about $1700. Ouch! Don't do that. If you get everything new online you'll save about 30% which I had my dealer price match the rest that I needed.
About $1300 of that is all the strut related parts. I got the full strut assemblies from a member on another forum for $330 shipped with only 6k miles on them.
So my total bill was only about $700. Not too bad for 3.5".

[martinus]

The night pics make the lift look higher ... optical illusion.

if you get bigger tires that will also fill in the wheel gap and look like its lower AND gain ground clerance.

measure the rear diff to ground clrance ... and post a pic.

[AWD>FWD]

Wow, where do I begin on you? Did you not read the thread? It's only 3 pages. Or maybe you're just extremely unclear about the similarities and differences between the Impreza and Forester. They are built on the EXACT SAME platform. THE EXACT SAME. THEY'RE IDENTICAL, with the exception of taller struts, subframe spacers and a handful of other braces, nuts and bolts. Thats how they achieve the lift/ride height on the Forester. I HAVE EVERY LAST PART, NUT, BOLT AND PIECE THAT MAKES FORESTER DIFFERENT FROM MY CAR.
Now lets really breakdown what you said.
You said "the suspension geometry is so far from stock that it may not perform very well"...:kyle:
There's nothing unstock about it. It's exactly stock. Stock forester now. It will "perform" just like a stock Forester. Maybe better.
You said..."more prone to rollovers.":cuckoo:
How is that exactly? I'm not a physics expert but it will be less prone to rollovers compared to a Forester because the body is lighter and not as long, wide or tall.
You said "obstacles that require that much ground clearance" :shocked:
My ground clearance is the same as the Forester.
You said " if you plan to use a Subaru like a truck"...:shock:
WTF! The word "truck" hasn't been used in the 3 pages of this thread.
You said"most people would just keep the new Impreza close to stock height so it would handle like a new car"...:jack:
Have you been on NASIOC anytime in the past 10 years? "Most"(99.99999%) people take the new Impreza (and previous year Impreza's)and lower them, or completely slam them.
Let me spell it out for you. You see, I did actual research. I scoured all the subaru forums then I went to the dealer and told them what I wanted to do. They printed out the schematics for the WRX and Forester suspensions and pointed out everything that makes them different. Then they printed out a list of all those parts. Then I purchased all those parts. Simple.
Geez I'm tired:waving:
P.s. To all the others who posted, Thank you. Sometime in the next week I will do a full write up with as many pics as possible.

Okay, first you should probably drop the defensive tone. I wasn't trying to diss your car/modifications, I was just trying to explain to you why you aren't getting the reaction you expected from everyone here.

Yes, I understand that the 08+ Impreza and Forester are on a shortened Legacy frame design. And yes, I understand that you have purchased all the necessary parts to retrofit Forester suspension, even if they aren't installed. Just understand that there are more differences between the two models than struts and trailing arms...
Before you should call this mod "done" you should figure out the alignment and ensure that your CVs and tie rods are at proper angles. My guess is that the altered steering angles will only accentuate a Subaru's natural tendency to follow every crack in the highway.

I mention using your Impreza "like a truck" because you posted that you planned lifting your Impreza as an alternative to buying a Forester or other truck/SUV for the ground clearance. I also mention using it like a truck because what else would be the point of needing that much ground clearance if you weren't going on trails with large rocks, steep hills, ruts, etc? It is in these circumstances that I would imagine an Impreza's gearing and soft body panels would become a consideration. Look at the lifted long travel 06 WRX wagon that has been built/driven by the Jackson Rally guys; they clearly love wheeling in the deep desert wash-outs while still being a mean speed demon, but a rig like that would be limited (or stuck) in the tight tree and rock infested trails we have in western Washington.
Why, would I do this? Lots of reasons. To be different, to be able to go over different types of terrain rather than just paved roads, I don't want some big SUV or truck with crappy gas mileage but I do like their ride height. To me it makes it a more usable all around vehicle rather than just a street car. And yes, I have all the parts to recenter the rear wheel.

Regardless, that is your car and you should do whatever the hell you want with it. Forget the e-jackasses telling you why they wouldn't have done it to their cars, if you like the finished project that's all that matters. I would just like to know what your end goal with the car is; do you want something that can keep up with the Toyotas and the Jeeps on the trails, a rally-x car, or just a daily driver that will get looks?

[Bubba02sti]

If you guys don't stop bickering and acting like two year olds i'm locking this thread.

[Tommyswrx]

My goal with the car is to be able to take it wherever I may happen to go. I don't want to say "hey guys, I can't go because my car is too low." I drive on the beach and go camping alot. I know my lift is overkill for that sort of thing. Unfortunately this is Florida and there aren't many offroad trails in my area. However, there is one great place that has trails that range from easy to difficult and when I went there at stock height it was fun but there was alot of areas I couldn't do. Now I can. I figured if I'm going to lift my car at all I might as well go all out.
Also the parking situation at my job is rediculously horrible. There's not enough spaces and alot of the trucks and SUV's are forced to park by going over the curb and park on the grass. Now I can do that too if I can't find a spot. It's a funny reason to need a lift but, it is what it is.

[dunkinuts]

Awesome job man!!! How much did all that cost you? Can't wait to see it all finished up! It really makes me want to get my springs and tires on!!

[AWD>FWD]

My goal with the car is to be able to take it wherever I may happen to go. I don't want to say "hey guys, I can't go because my car is too low." I drive on the beach and go camping alot. I know my lift is overkill for that sort of thing. Unfortunately this is Florida and there aren't many offroad trails in my area. However, there is one great place that has trails that range from easy to difficult and when I went there at stock height it was fun but there was alot of areas I couldn't do. Now I can. I figured if I'm going to lift my car at all I might as well go all out.
Also the parking situation at my job is rediculously horrible. There's not enough spaces and alot of the trucks and SUV's are forced to park by going over the curb and park on the grass. Now I can do that too if I can't find a spot. It's a funny reason to need a lift but, it is what it is.

Fair enough. :)
Good luck with the project, I'll be interested in seeing it with the Forester trailing arms, smaller wheels, chunky rubber, and a good alignment. Keep us updated on your before and after thoughts (and pics) when you "finish".
:cheers:

[Tommyswrx]

Just to give everyone some info. The Forester rear trailing arms are the same. There are no trailing arm brackets. They just bolt straight to the subframe. Also, the rear sway bar is the same, however, the endlinks are different so I will be getting those as well.

[upstate2.5i]

Awesome job man!!! How much did all that cost you? Can't wait to see it all finished up! It really makes me want to get my springs and tires on!!

See post #48, and get your **** done!

[dunkinuts]

See post #48, and get your **** done!

lol I am I am. I have switched shifts and we are looking at houses so I have been busy.

[martinus]

http://www.dirtyimpreza.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2171&d=1293597572

The new girls, bf's car ... even stock the rear looks close to the "runing board"

[Tommyswrx]

http://www.dirtyimpreza.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2171&d=1293597572

The new girls, bf's car ... even stock the rear looks close to the "runing board"
It's true, even my wrx stock was closer to the front than the rear.

[Case1220]

Looks awesome!! time for a sawzall, fender flares and mud terrains hehe :eyebrows:

What size wheel/tire are you looking to run (sorry if I missed it somewhere in the 4 pages)

[Tommyswrx]

Most likely 15" with all terrains, or maybe some mud terrains :muhaha:

[rollo]

I like it.. I think with the right wheels and tyres you'll have something very unusual and capable in the rough stuff.

Doing it all with OEM parts is pretty cool too - to see the whole "Subaru = Lego" thing carry on even now is great.

FWIW, at first flush it is weird that you got an apparently negative reaction here. The reason IMO is that a lot of DI folk, for whatever reason, tend to skip past the "dude that's cool" reaction and go straight to to the engineering aspects. And the immediate thought is, higher CG = bigger chance of rolling. That's just physics, but of course you're aware of that and will presumably drive the car in a manner befitting its new height. Like almost any mod, it's a compromise - gain a lot of ground clearance, lose a little stability. But as long as you compensate, no harm done.

[rockrammer]

And you rocked it at Miller Motorsports Park at Rally-cross last year GClark!

[GreenMtnMan]

Just found this thread. Tought my monitor was going to flameup. WOW.

Tommyswrx - Fantastic. Great research. Keep up the great work man. Can't wait to see the finished project, any build photos, ride report, I'll ride Shotgun for ya on the first off road.

:rally-driver:

[ogi]

did you get pictures of this with the new tires? I'd never do a lift like that, but love that you did. incredible.

[2002maniac]

It looks pretty silly with the stock wheels and tires. Any updates? Just wondering if you ever finished the forester conversion and got some suitable rubber.

[Tommyswrx]

I have all the forester parts put on now and even with the stock wheels and tires I'm loving it. I just need some adjustable rear trailing arms to center the rear wheels then I'm getting 16" subaru wheels and all terrains. Its not like the previous years where you could just get forester brackets. 08+ don't have brackets. Where they mount is welded to the frame. Soon...

[edmo]

Hello Mr. Tommy (I guess this is your name)

My name is Edmo, I live in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and I'm a happy owner of a 2.0R dual range impreza.

I found my self very ****ing happy to see your height mod. Thats exactly what I wanna do since I got mine a couple of months ago.

I was thinking on put new tires, like 206/60 or 205/65R16 to get my new height, but I see you guys from dirtyimpreza are far more professionals.

I read all your posts and I'm very curios to see the part list and how it handles. I'm mechanical engineer, I spend all my graduation time on mini-baja shops and I really understand about suspension and I firmly believe that you really can have a safe higher car. So if your car isnt handling like you expect I would be very happy to suggest you some. But I believe thats will not be necessary.

Moving back to the height adjustment subject, I've made a cross country with my subie. I bought mine in Natal, RN (try google maps) and drove 2000miles back home (rio de janeiro). Most of that was asphalt, with some small offroad paths. I was really impressed with the offroad I've made. Actually I didnt have any troubles with my "off-light-road" but got scraped on many speed bumpers (very common in Brazil).

Now I'm planning a trip trough argentina and chile (southern part of south america). It will be something like 6500miles. I really want to be prepared for anything and raising something between 1 to 2 inches would be perfect.

I've see you got more 3,5 inches and I was very impressed. I'm considering the use of your solution with stiffer lower springs - to achieve 2 extra inches with added stability or just install the subtle solutions (or make one - 2easy) 1,5"spacer.

If you could post the forrester suspension part list I (and a lot of subie owners) would be very thankfull.

congratulations for your mod, you're a pioneer!

[Tommyswrx]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMG_0283.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/IMAG0125-1.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/044.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/021.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c7/Sexysubaru/2011-09-24200840PaperCamera.jpg

[joelgat]

Hello,

Any pics showing where the rear wheel ended up, relative to the wheel well?

Thanks!
Joel

[Tommyswrx]

I'll find a pic somewhere but it only moved up about an inch.

[winski357]

looks like a totally different car lifted up that high!

[Tommyswrx]

Whats funny is when I park next to most of these stupid crossover SUV's. My car is much smaller and I have more ground clearance.

[gregroot198521]

Long time lurker, but new member: where is this list you have promised? I'm not interested in going that high, but an inch or 2 would make me a little happier.

[1999_SilverStreak]

Tommy your WRX is the Tits ! :muhaha:

[TexasRallysport]

I have a Forester setup as well, but I did not get the rest of the subframe spacers so that I could easily put it back to stock on a whim or for autocrossing.

So what did it take exactly to move the rear wheels back to correct the rear caster?