GrimmSpeed Top Mount Intercooler - Black Subaru WRX 2008-2014 | 090044

Meticulous Engineering Meets Unparalleled Craftsmanship.

You probably already know that you want an intercooler with maximum cooling and minimum restriction, but when it comes to selecting the right ‘man for the job’, we think it’s important to understand why. As air is pressurized by your turbo, it heats up, not because of the heat of the turbocharger, but because when they’re compressed, the atoms in the air are forced closer together and as a result, move faster and have more energy. That energy manifests itself as heat. The more heat we can remove from the system, the denser the air becomes and that’s what helps eliminate pre-detonation, or ‘knock’, allowing for increased output from your system. Your OEM TMIC does just fine at stock boost under normal use, but as soon as you start putting some real heat into it with a higher boost or harder use, it heat-soaks beyond recovery.

Quick Specs

• 17.5in x 8.7in x 3.5in Cross Flow Core - careful balance of high heat transfer and low pressure drop
• Cast Aluminum End Tanks - machined BPV flange for precision fit and perfect seal
• 5-Ply Silicone Couplers - custom molded and reinforced for demanding environments
• Wide-Mouth Splitter - collects air from the entire width of the scoop
• Vibration Isolation Mounting - protect the intercooler system from fatigue due to vibration
• Stainless Steel BPV Studs - avoid the risk of damaging fragile aluminum threads
• Cleaned, Inspected and Sealed Prior to Shipping - prevent motor damage due to foreign matter

Design

There are two primary considerations in the design of an intercooler: maximum heat transfer and minimum pressure drop. Unfortunately, one causes the other, so finding a perfect balance requires a detailed understanding of the intended application, some serious engineering power and the highest quality manufacturing processes. Fitment and quality are also critically important to ensure that the most safety-critical part of your turbo system is up to the task every time your foot hits the floor. We began by laser scanning an OEM TMIC to plot the mounting points and space claim in CAD with pinpoint accuracy. At the same time, we designed a custom bar and plate core with overall dimensions, fin density and fin types that would provide the insane heat transfer area we require with minimal flow restriction. With core size nailed down, we got to work designing end tanks that offered smooth flow, perfect fitment and even distribution of the hot charge air through the core. Countless revisions were tested in flow simulation before we finally found exactly the characteristics that we wanted. From there, 3D printed prototypes were used to confirm fitment and we began work on manufacturing details in preparation for verification testing and production.

Construction

Each intercooler uses two unique end tanks. The first accepts the hot charge air from the turbo and feeds it to the intercooler core. The second receives the cooled charge air from the core and delivers it to the throttle body. These end tanks are precision cast and machined right here in Minnesota. The bypass valve flange is milled flat and stainless steel studs are permanently installed to ensure that the aluminum threads don’t become damaged and shorten the life of the intercooler. Following inspection, end tanks are welded to high density bar and plate intercoolers before the entire assembly is pressure tested, cleaned and sealed for shipment. 5-ply silicone couplers hold their shape in extreme conditions and ensure that charge air makes it to and from the intercooler with no trouble. Splitters are laser cut from aluminum sheet and CNC bent before being assembled and powdercoated with a durable texture black finish. Stainless steel hardware secures the splitter to the factory hood scoop.

Performance

We setup testing to simulate a real world scenario that’s typically demanding of an intercooler. The test vehicle is a 2012 WRX with a GrimmSpeed downpipe, boost control solenoid, prototype intake and professional tuning. On a closed course, we accelerated in 3rd gear from 3000rpm to redline repeatedly, with 5-8sec between runs. Temperature was logged via k-type thermocouples between the turbo and the intercooler and between the intercooler and the throttle body on both units. Ambient temperature here in Minnesota for both tests was between 20 and 22 degrees F.

The results above speak for themselves, but here’s a breakdown. The phase differences between the runs are a result of how quickly we could safely get the car back down to speed for another run, but the important thing to notice is the magnitude of the temperature fluctuations. Predictably, both intercoolers were seeing similar Pre-IC temperatures on each run (180-190F peak), but while the GrimmSpeed Uncoated TMIC kept Post-IC temperatures between 30-40F the entire time, the OEM TMIC fluctuated between 35-75F. This is the kind of consistent cooling that you should expect from a high quality TMIC and is a function of the geometry and design of the bar and plate core. Our high density core has a massive heat transfer surface area but maintains a large enough cross-sectional flow area that there’s very little added restriction. 

The charts above represent average pressure drop and temperature drop for each of the three intercoolers that we tested. It's interesting to see that each intercooler has it's stronger and weaker points, which is to be expected. Intercooler design is all about finding the right balance of heat transfer and pressure drop. As you can see here, we've opted for a large heat transfer with a small increase in pressure drop. The stock TMIC creates a smaller pressure drop, but sacrifices greatly in heat transfer. The 'other' TMIC that we tested offered heat transfer between OEM and GS, but had the highest pressure drop of the three.

Fitments and Options

• 08-14 Subaru WRX
• 08-14 Subaru WRX with Black Thermal Dispersant Coating
• 05-09 Subaru Legacy GT
• 05-09 Subaru Legacy GT with Black Thermal Dispersant Coating
• 05-09 Outback XT fitment should use Legacy GT kit

Install Guide

Subaru 08-14 WRX, 05-09 LGT Installation Instructions

Returns
Our policy lasts 30 days. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately, we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. Please send an email to sales@jdmuscleusa.com or use our return portal located at the top of the page to set up a return.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Additional non-returnable items:

• Giftcards
• Special-ordered items, including anything custom products

If you choose to email us to initiate a return, please ensure to include the following information in your email:

• Your order number
• Item(s) that you wish to return
• Reason for returning

Please do NOT send your purchase back to the manufacturer

Please do NOT send back an item without setting up a return first

Depending on your method of payment, transaction fees might not be refundable which ranges between 2.3% - 6% of the order value. Note this is charged by a third-party payment provider, not us. You may receive a full refund if you choose to receive a store credit instead.

There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

• Any item not in its original condition/ is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
• Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

Some manufacturers would charge a restocking fee ranging from 10% - 30% of the original order value. Below is a list of some but now all of them, please be mindful when placing the order / considering a return:

• ESR 30%
• JDMuscle 15%
• PLM 20%

Cancellation

Please ensure you have contacted us on availability before placing an order. All cancellations could be subject to 2.3% - 6% fee to cover transaction costs charged by third-party payment providers. You have 7 days to cancel an order, once the order has been processed(item packaged/ tracking number has been created), the cancellation will not be allowed but you may contact us for a return request if the item is eligible for return.

Special-ordered items cannot be canceled.

Refunds (if applicable)
Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund.

If you are approved, then your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment, within 3-10 business days(depending on the payment provider). The restocking fee might be applicable as noted in the return section.

Late or missing refunds (if applicable)

Once you have received an email/text from us stating the refund has been processed, at this stage, it's completely out of our control but depends on the payment providers to decide when the refund will show up in your bank. As noted, depending on the payment provider the process can take up to 10 business days(usually 3-5). If you haven’t received a refund yet, please first check your bank statement. A lot of times instead of a new line showing a reversal charge/credit, the payment would just disappear from your pending section.

Contact your credit card company/financing company you used, it may take some time before your refund is officially posted but reaching out might help expedite the process.

If you’ve done all of the above and you still have not received your refund yet, please contact us at sales@JDMuscleUSA.com and one of our team members will provide assistance.

Sale items (if applicable)
Only full-priced items are eligible for return/refund.

Exchanges (if applicable)
We only replace items if they are defective or damaged. If you need to exchange it for the same item, send us an email at sales@JDMuscleUSA.com or use the return/exchange portal located on the top of the page.

Gifts
If the item was marked as a gift when purchased and shipped directly to you, you’ll receive a gift credit for the value of your return. Once the returned item is received, a gift certificate will be emailed to you.

If the item wasn’t marked as a gift when purchased, or the gift giver had the order shipped to themselves to give to you later, we will send a refund to the gift giver and he will find out about your return.

Shipping
You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item unless the item was damaged/wrong/defective in which case we will cover shipping both ways. Initial shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item and take no responsibility for any loss or damage during the return shipping.

And please refer to the return shipping address as provided in the RMA / return instructions. A lot of times the return address can be different than the initial shipping address.

Pre-Installation Inspection Policy:

All parts or items received via mail must undergo a thorough inspection prior to installation. Any damage or imperfections identified during or after this inspection must be reported immediately to sales@jdmuscleusa.com, and the item should not be installed. Please note that reports of damage, defects, or imperfections submitted after installation will not be honored.

JDMuscle LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY

Effective for any JDMuscle product purchased on or after 2019/01/01

JDMuscle warrants its products under this Lifetime Limited Warranty Policy (“Warranty Policy”). This Warranty Policy applies solely to: (i) JDMuscle products purchased directly from JDMuscle or authorized dealers, and (ii) the original purchaser of such JDMuscle products (“Purchaser”). This Warranty Policy is non-transferable and all claims must be accompanied by the original sales receipt. JDMuscle reserves the right to change the terms and conditions of this Warranty Policy at any time without notice.

Warranty Coverage

Under the terms of this Warranty Policy, if it is determined that a JDMuscle product was not manufactured to advertised specifications, JDMuscle will, at its discretion: (i) repair or replace the original product; (ii) replace the original product with the most current available model if the original is no longer available; or (iii) provide a gift card redeemable at jdmuscleusa.com for the amount of the original purchase price of the product.

This Warranty Policy also covers Racing Art products.

For non-JDMuscle branded products purchased through JDMuscle, we offer lifetime technical support in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty.

Submitting a Claim

To submit a warranty claim, the Purchaser must:

1. Email sales@jdmuscleusa.com with the claim details.
2. Provide the original sales receipt or an authorized dealer order number.
3. Include a photo of the product clearly showing the issue.

If requested, the Purchaser must send the product, with all transportation costs prepaid, to JDMuscle.

Special Conditions for Carbon Fiber Products

Carbon fiber products must be clear-coated by the customer upon receipt to maintain durability. This Warranty Policy covers only cracking caused by the product itself and not due to any impact, neglect, improper care, or use. Normal wear and tear, including minor scratches or fading, is not covered under this policy. Additionally, carbon fiber hoods must be installed with hood pins for safety. JDMuscle will not cover damage resulting from failure to use hood pins.

Warranty Exclusions

This Warranty Policy does not cover:

• Damage due to accidents, neglect, improper installation, or usage.
• Normal wear and tear, including stains, scratches, or other minor cosmetic issues.
• Issues arising from non-compliance with care, use, and installation instructions.
• Any damage to carbon fiber products not related to structural cracking.
• Labor costs for installation or removal of products.

JDMuscle is not responsible for any other property damage or personal injury related to the use or installation of its products.

General Warranty Guidelines

• All claims must be accompanied by a photo of the product showing the issue.
• Products damaged on arrival (DOA) must be claimed within 7 business days of delivery. Claims outside of this timeframe will not be covered under the lifetime warranty.
• JDMuscle reserves the right to refuse any claim at its discretion.
• Approved claims may result in repair, replacement, or a gift card equivalent to the original purchase price, at JDMuscle’s discretion.
• If a replacement product is out of stock, the customer will be placed on backorder until the product becomes available.
• All historical orders are covered under this Warranty Policy.

Shipping Guidelines

Repaired or replacement products will be shipped to the Purchaser within the continental United States via standard ground service. Expedited shipping and international shipping are available at an additional cost.

Shipping Costs

Shipping fees for repairs or replacements will vary based on the claim as follows:

• Standard Products (non-oversized): $25 if submitted within 90 days, $40 after 90 days.
• Oversized Items (e.g., hoods, large aero parts): $120 if submitted within 90 days, $150 after 90 days.
• Accessories: $15 if submitted within 90 days, $25 after 90 days.

For claims submitted more than two years after the purchase date, an additional $20 surcharge will apply.

General Disclaimer

THE WARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN ARE THE ONLY WARRANTIES MADE BY JDMUSCLE WITH RESPECT TO ITS PRODUCTS. JDMUSCLE DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE PURCHASER ASSUMES ALL RISKS RELATED TO THE USE OF JDMUSCLE PRODUCTS.

Limitation of Liability

No claim by the Purchaser shall exceed the purchase price of the product. JDMUSCLE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING LOST PROFITS OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES, ARISING FROM THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE JDMUSCLE PRODUCTS.

For further information or assistance, please contact our customer support.

Returns
Our policy lasts 30 days. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately, we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. Please send an email to sales@jdmuscleusa.com or use our return portal located at the top of the page to set up a return.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Additional non-returnable items:

• Giftcards
• Special-ordered items, including anything custom products

If you choose to email us to initiate a return, please ensure to include the following information in your email:

• Your order number
• Item(s) that you wish to return
• Reason for returning

Please do NOT send your purchase back to the manufacturer

Please do NOT send back an item without setting up a return first

Depending on your method of payment, transaction fees might not be refundable which ranges between 2.3% - 6% of the order value. Note this is charged by a third-party payment provider, not us. You may receive a full refund if you choose to receive a store credit instead.

There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

• Any item not in its original condition/ is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
• Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

 Some manufacturers would charge a restocking fee ranging from 10% - 30% of the original order value. Below is a list of some but now all of them, please be mindful when placing the order / considering a return:

• ESR 30%
• JDMuscle 15%
• PLM 20%

Cancellation

Please ensure you have contacted us on availability before placing an order. All cancellations could be subject to 2.3% - 6% fee to cover transaction costs charged by third-party payment providers. You have 7 days to cancel an order, once the order has been processed(item packaged/ tracking number has been created), the cancellation will not be allowed but you may contact us for a return request if the item is eligible for return.

Special-ordered items cannot be canceled.

Refunds (if applicable)
Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund.

If you are approved, then your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment, within 3-10 business days(depending on the payment provider). The restocking fee might be applicable as noted in the return section.

Late or missing refunds (if applicable)

Once you have received an email/text from us stating the refund has been processed, at this stage, it's completely out of our control but depends on the payment providers to decide when the refund will show up in your bank. As noted, depending on the payment provider the process can take up to 10 business days(usually 3-5). If you haven’t received a refund yet, please first check your bank statement. A lot of times instead of a new line showing a reversal charge/credit, the payment would just disappear from your pending section.

Contact your credit card company/financing company you used, it may take some time before your refund is officially posted but reaching out might help expedite the process.

If you’ve done all of the above and you still have not received your refund yet, please contact us at sales@JDMuscleUSA.com and one of our team members will provide assistance.

Sale items (if applicable)
Only full-priced items are eligible for return/refund.

Exchanges (if applicable)
We only replace items if they are defective or damaged. If you need to exchange it for the same item, send us an email at sales@JDMuscleUSA.com or use the return/exchange portal located on the top of the page.

Gifts
If the item was marked as a gift when purchased and shipped directly to you, you’ll receive a gift credit for the value of your return. Once the returned item is received, a gift certificate will be emailed to you.

If the item wasn’t marked as a gift when purchased, or the gift giver had the order shipped to themselves to give to you later, we will send a refund to the gift giver and he will find out about your return.

Shipping
You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item unless the item was damaged/wrong/defective in which case we will cover shipping both ways. Initial shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item and take no responsibility for any loss or damage during the return shipping.

And please refer to the return shipping address as provided in the RMA / return instructions. A lot of times the return address can be different than the initial shipping address.

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