Fluidampr for your Subaru? Initial thoughts review.
Hey!... And welcome to this week's #modmonday! Today we take a look into the first sponsor of the website/instagram, @theoriginalfluidampr! Making of the Fluidampr for many cars that is made right here in the United States!
Fluidampr making the front of the engine that much nicer to gaze upon!
While rebuilding my Sti engine I have had plenty of time to research new parts and find out what might make this build just a step above the old. I am always searching for more power but with a hint of longevity/reliability mixed in. After a #getadomtune youtube video that talked about the downside of lightweight crank pulleys I decided to further investigate. https://youtu.be/trJjapRUjH0
A little history lesson about Fluidampr, it was established in the 80s when parent company Vibratech TVD was approached by professional race builders to build a durable industry proven viscous damper for motorsports use. This experience in race application has made a quality damper that can put up with increased heat and horsepower all while protecting our engine across a wide rpm range.
Welcome to the shop Fluidampr!
Subaru's engine design has the lightest and shortest cranks in production which is great for performance but when you couple it with a lightweight crank pulley you can start seeing false knock. This issue stems from the fact crank weight is too low causing the engine to interpret the data as a misfire. Head to #getadomtune's youtube channel for a more detailed explanation on that. (Search: Why I don't use lightweight crank pulleys on Subarus)
Small crankshaft is… well, small.
Not much in the counterweight department which helps keep the weight down
Tight, compact and light… just how we like our performance engines.
When you are adding power you are putting more strain on the entire rotating assembly which the damper is a part of. With this thought in my mind I also thought how common it is to see a spun bearing in a Subaru.. Are the two connected somehow...? To me it seems to make sense. With these thoughts coming together the only answer was to put a higher quality damper on it and see the results.
My initial thoughts on the Fluidampr were just how well it comes packaged. I have never experienced such outstanding packaging on an aftermarket car part. It is truly next level and shows their pride within the product. You will never have to worry about your local package delivery company destroying it in transit.
Boxception
Sandwiched!
Only 84 licks to the center of a Fluidampr from deep in the depths of all the amazing packaging
Next to the factory pulley the dimensions are identical, the Fluidampr's exterior construction is better than oem in quality. The black zinc coating looks excellent and will keep it looking immaculate for years to come in any weather or conditions. The Fluidampr will tip the scale just slightly higher with its construction and thick viscous fluid that can outlast your car, while the oem unit has the exposed rubber ring that can/will degrade.
Meet the new boss!
Side by side
Detail look at the rubber ring on the oem unit that helps it do what it can
Here is the compartment where the magic goo lives!
The Forester will be the first test bed and I am very excited to see just how well it works out on both builds to see just how it can help out your Subaru whether its a daily driver, lightly modded or full on project car to the tilt. Stay tuned for updates to come soon!