Fluidampr crank damper review! I'm digging those good vibrations!
Welcome to #modmonday! This week we are taking a dive into the @theorginalfluidampr and what it can do for your Subaru. This has been installed on the Forester for the last few weeks and let's see what a difference it has made.
Just another quality part to add to your list. Fluidampr for Ej25 part number 531101
Trusty rusty Forester getting a new part and sticker!
During my current rebuild of my STi I was exploring any further upgrades. Through my research I stumbled upon the Fluidampr crank damper and after an explanation of it's benefits and how it can help with engine longevity I was sold. You will spend tons to make power but what do you spend to protect that power making machine?
With a little over an hour of installation I started the Forester up and immediately noticed how much less vibration there was on the shift knob. This is rather easy to tell given that my shifter has a 10" extension on it. Next up my wife got into the car and after we arrived at the first stop sign she asked "What is wrong with your car, did it shut off?" It certainly hadn't, the typical high mileage idle vibrations had been dramatically reduced. When your wife notices these things... You really know it has made a difference.
With a shifter this tall you notice a little engine shake. Also it rattles loose every few days… Until this was installed.
Oem unit vs Fluidampr. One piece that definitely exceeds oem quality.
My own observations from the driver seat were just how much smoother the engine climbed through the RPM range. It gives the engine a much more refined feeling while also making it feel more powerful due to how effortlessly and silky it now revs.
Another noteworthy finding was during engine braking which I often do for the fun of it. The gear whine that I have been so accustomed to when slowing down is much quieter and less noticeable which is just a bonus. Cruising along at highway speeds the Forester feels less harsh and when pushing the throttle down it once again feels so much happier to pick up speed and go.
During the install!
If you have a few miles on your Subaru like mine.. It might be time to replace the damper. Why not give your car a bit of treat as well.
Overall I am very content with the newest addition to the Forester. After reading quite a few reviews before installing the damper, I honestly thought it would have such minimal gains that it wouldn't be worth a review but instead it has been very impressive. I find myself very excited to drive the Forester again, it has revived the enjoyment when behind the wheel. My initial reasoning for installing this was to keep the engine stronger longer, so any other gains are just icing on the cake.
Questions, comments, thoughts? Leave them below!