Need Help Please - STI steering knuckle for GT

[PoidaGT]

Hi Guys

I recently bought the STI steering knuckle so i can fit my Invidia Down Pipe.

My only problem is that i can't get the old knuckle off the steering column (its on very tight).

Does anyone have any tips or know someone that can give me advice?

Cheers

POIDAGT

[bass_straitener]

Mate have you considered ringing Dan at Carmods, and getting one that fits. The AVO or even the phat gt one from on here.

[PoidaGT]

Hi Bruce

Already had sent the first downpipe back to Dan as it didn't have a catalitic converter installed (Invidia won't take it back either)

Too far down the track now to turn back now (exhaust is off and intercooler is out).

B4ITZUP gave me a link to a Subaru Maintenance site that shows me how to change the knuckle.

I have to remove the steering wheel and slide the column back and then slot the STI knuckle in.

A bit of work but i think i can do it (i hope i'm not out of my depth)

cheers

Poida GT

[bass_straitener]

Sorry Poida,

There's an easy way to do things and a hard way, and I reckon you haven't chosen the easy.

No chance of a swap to the AVO via Dan? Even just the AVO collector, if that's the problem? I know that fits without any other bits.

Goodluck anyway and keep us posted on how you go.

[3rspecb]

Be careful not to screw up ur your clock spring when removing the steering wheel and the steering column. The clock spring sets the no of turns to full lock (LH/RH). Try taping it down so it doesn't spin around and loose its setting during removal.

[PoidaGT]

struck out

Didn't have a steering wheel puller so i couldn't get the steering wheel off.

I really felt nervous taking the airback module out, i felt like i worked for the bomb squad.

Looks like a trip to the mechanics this week, doh!


Dan won't take the Invidia down pipe back as he doesn't stock the item and did a special order from the US for me.

As its for an auto GT, its the first one he ordered and didn't know there was a steering column issue (he does now).

I just wish he recommended me another brand at the begining.

Oh well, just have to live with my decision and i try and make it work.


Also fitted my AVO TMIC today.

It didn't fit as neat as i thought and the bolt holes didn't align properly for the BOV.

I couldn't feel any extra power either

Once the downpipe has been put on and its been tuned, i'm sure it will go much better.

Cheers

Poida GT

[PoidaGT]

I had my mechanic replace the standard knuckle for the STI universal joint today for $90. The shaft didn't exactly line up with the sti version by half a tooth which put the steering wheel about by about 5 degrees. I had the front wheel alignment done for $40 so all up this exercise cost me an extra $200 to fit the Invidia downpipe.

The exhaust is sooooooo loud that the entire suburb can hear me when i come on boost and it sounds like a full racing rally car. I really regret getting this Invidia exhaust system.

Hopefully this post will help others avoid making the same mistake i did.

[PoidaGT]

I believe i'm getting too much vibration from the STI steering knuckle into the cabin.

The STI column has no rubber connector like the standard OEM knuckle which i believe is designed to remove vibration back up into the cabin.

At certain RPM, certain parts behind the dashboard vibrate which really pisses me off:angry2:

The whole Invidia downpipe installation has been a costly and frustrating mistake.

[imania]

There will be someone after both those features (stiffer knuckle and loud exhaust)
Perhaps put up an EOI for the parts, then when there's interest, look at getting something like a phat dump to restore happiness with your car