As someone with an '03 who had to have an emissions test this year, I will say that the allowed STU modifications and passing emissions are two seperate things. In Denver we have dyno emissions testing and with a HFC the car flunked HC emissions. So until there is 50 state universal emissions guidelines, the HFC rule will continue to be one of those rules that the SCCA has that contradicts itself.

 

What I hate about STU is that being a '03 owner I am without a torsen LSD, ACD and MIVEC. The IXs have a significant advantage because of this.

I would love if the SCCA would allow update modifications to be done on a less strigent rule (ie. allow just the OEM torsen LSDs to be added, along with the MIVEC system as well so long as it is controlled via OEM equipment) rather making the update so complicated by needed to updated EVERYTHING, unless I am reading the rules incorrectly. The ACD isn't as much of an improvement as the other two.

This is where NASA is better. There update rules are way better in that you can pick and choose what you want to update from year to year, so I could add an OEM LSD and MIVEC system if I chose to, albeit with a points penatly.

Plus the '03s are heavier to say a MIVEC RS or even a IX.

 

STU follows the STX rules(not STS which doesn't allow it) which state:

"5. Only standard (as defined in Section 12.4) limited slip differentials (LSD) are allowed on AWD vehicles. For AWD vehicles that did not come with any type of limited slip differential (including center differential or transfer case), a single aftermarket LSD maybe added. 2WD vehicles may use any LSD unit."

I just re-read it over and over again and I *think* you can add a front diff.

 

Sweet So that would mean I could add a Cusco or Quaife LSD of some sort? Thanks for the clarification, I thought it followed STS rules. Oh boy, time to crack open the wallet in time for Divisionals!!!

 

I've tried to read that rule into allowing a front LSD but the stickler is the provision "For AWD vehicles that did not come with any type of limited slip differential...." Since the '03's came with a rear LSD, we're screwed

 

Yea the word "any" is the part that gives me pause. We need someone who can speak SEB to translate that one. It would definitely be worth an email(if that hasn't already been done) to the SEB for clarification.

 

Good point. Plus the '03s came with a helical front LSD (I believe), which is essentially an open diff. I think an email should be sent to SEB about these concerns as they would benefit '03 owners substantially.

 

It's been done and the rule, as it's written and interpreted, does not allow for the 03's and 04's (not incl/04'RS) to add a factory or aftermarket front lsd.

Besides, who needs it. The first 2 National Tours this year were won by.......'drum roll please'.......non-flsd 03's .

Dave

 

Well that just goes to show its not as big of a disadvantage as I thought. I guess I should just stop making excuses about coming second to Corey at every event and just driver faster then, huh?

 

unless u r pushing SM trim hp, i dont think a FLSD is needed. I own a 03 and a 06 and doesnt really feel huge diff if theres even any to begin with.

 

Yea but you guys can out corner us and on an auto-x course that has little to no straights (almost all), THAT is a hugh advantage. It all balances out in the end, or at least we hope it does.

Also, as Silencer mentioned the addition of a front LSD isn't allowed on an 03-04 EVO8 (non-RS model) because the car comes with a clutch type rear LSD and viscous center diff (LSD). If you are complaining about inside front tire spin, you have other problem that a front LSD won't help you fix, IMHO. I've driven a 03 EVO (non front LSD) and a 05 EVO on the same course on the same day and there was hardly a difference in my times.

Honestly I don't see power being a big advantage, as this sport is all about driver, grip and handling period. So I don't understand why people complain about being down 10-20HP. My biggest problem is, you have to pretty much be willing to make your car on the un-streetable side (suspension wise) to truely be competetive.

 

(WARNING: shameless sponsor plug) Really? My Zzyzx setup is great on the street! A lot of the events I go to are at least 6 hours away one way and I drive the car there loaded with all my gear and a second set of wheels. My biggest complaint is no cruise control.

And on topic, I agree about the HP thing. I'd say the difference in STU is in tenths or hundredths (important at nationals obviously), not seconds.

 

I know Steve (ZZYZX motorsport), he is in KC and local to me (just a state away) ... very knowledgable and friendly guy. Him and I have a CS miata vs under prepped STU EVO grudge match going on (all in good fun ofcourse). The Koni Race shocks he packages with setup is awesome but out of my price range. As with any form of racing, setting up the car to the max comes with have deep pockets or lots of sponsors. Last time I checked my pocket all I got was a handful of lint.

 

Did you and your co-driver decide to head down to Peru in 2-weeks?

Dave

 

YES! We'll be there! Assuming I get the car put back together properly. Stupid bushings and sway bars. I already made one $260 mistake by wrecking my driver's front control arm trying to press out the bushing.