OK, we all know the X is a big girl.
I would like to know how to remove some weight out of the front of the car to further improve its already decent front:rear weight distribution.

In the VIII and IX, that battery was in the front, and that was a great way to save weight. In the X, its in the back, and I am not really looking to remove weight in the back.

Any ideas what we can pull out of the front for a modest reduction without going too crazy?

 

you could lose a couple ounce's by taking off the gay plastic engine cover.

 

Just brainstorming here based on what I've seen of the X, but here's some stuff that should be simple:

Plastic covers
Lighter weight exhaust manifold (the stock cast pieces are usually pretty heavy)
FMIC
Intercooler piping
Front bumper beam
5mph foam in the front bumper
Installing coilovers instead of the stock suspension

- Patrick

 

Bumper beam scares me on a street car, but it would take out a lot of weight. I have a 2 year old, though, so I won't do that.

I think an FMIC will increase front weight. I had an AMS FMIC on my VIII and it was huge, since it was a lot better at cooling air.

Thanks for the ideas! Keep 'em coming.

 

Yeah front bumper beam can be a scary one. But dang are they heavy!

As far as the FMIC, it depends on the type you get. But I think the intercooler piping could probably shed a few pounds.

- Patrick

 

When I removed the insulation from under the carpet of my VW, that added up to 30Lbs.

 

Usually aftermarket I/Cs are heavier then stock, like Noize said.

 

Why is removing the beam scary?

 

IMO: unless your going to do anything major, whats the point of taking off 50-75 lbs??? Seems rather pointless.

Either your going to go all out and not worry about it. Obviously your kids are priorities! +++!

But unless your going to remove the A/C etc etc etc, i dont know how much weight can be removed by plastics and a pipe or two?

And how much weight needs to be removed to actually NOTICE a difference?

Sorry to be a naysayer! my .02

 

Here's some suggestions.

1) Mini-battery kit (that's for rear)
2) Change the exhaust system.
3) Get lighter rims.
4) Get lighter springs.
5) Get a lighter flywheel.
6) Remove your spare (call AAA for any blowouts).
7) Carbon-fiber hood

 

On my STi when I switched from the USDM bumper beam to the JDM one (saves maybe 20lbs) I noticed quite a difference in acceleration and handling.

- Patrick

 

Because it changes the dynamics of the front structure if there is a crash. There's also a possibility it could make the airbags not work properly but I don't know how they specifically work on the X or other Evos.

- Patrick

 

To reveal a gay valve cover? I'd stick with the cover.

 

Its not really scary, but on a street car its not a good idea. If you have an accident w/o it, you insurance could decide not to cover you and you might get in trouble with the law, seeing that crash beams are required under federal law.

First, you right about how it takes a lot to make a difference. Usually a 100lbs weight reduction gains you about a tenth (0.1) in the 1/4 mile.

But when you start taking off a lil here and a lil there, it adds up. Also, lightening a car isnt just for acceleration. A lighter car handles better and brakes faster too

 

Every little bit does count. Getting the weight off the front in particular will really improve braking especially.

- Patrick