After experiencing a connecting rod bearing failure with his 2014 Subaru WRX, Chris decided to take the opportunity to build the EJ255 for improved performance, resilience, and reliability for the long run!

Up first in the shop, we removed the EJ255 to determine the extent of the failure and identify which components required replacing, then starting with a Stage 2 built short block from IAG Performance, we rebuilt the engine with brand new OEM Subaru gaskets & seals, WRX STI 11mm oil pump, oil cooler and associated components, AVCS components, oil pan, timing components from Gates, fasteners from ARP, V2 oil pick tube from IAG Performance, Street Series air/oil separator from IAG Performance, down-pipe from Invidia Exhaust, SF air-intake system from COBB Tuning, an HDSS clutch setup from Advanced Clutch Technology, along with all the miscellaneous OEM and aftermarket components to bring it all together.

With the mechanical work wrapped in the shop, John strapped her down to the rollers for Vlad to perform a custom Pro Tune via COBB Tuning's V3 Accessport. While elevated intake air temperatures did hold us back a bit, Vlad was still able to increase the EJ255's output to 290.80awhp & 315.82lbft! An upgraded intercooler down the line would really top this setup off nicely!