SUBARU OUTBACK/LEGACY
We are pleased to announce the latest enhancement to AMBOT Tuned's offerings: COBB Accessport Tuning for the 2022 and newer Subaru Outback and Legacy models. One of the most effective modifications you can make to your Subaru Outback is to apply a performance tune. We are particularly excited to introduce Accessport tuning for the 2023-2025 Subaru Outback XT and Wilderness, as well as the 2023-2025 Legacy XT and Sport trims.
New Customer - For those who are using an Accessport
Upon acquiring an Accessport, you have several tuning options available:
1. **Stock Tune**: You can choose to run the stock tune while utilizing the Accessport to monitor various data points.
2. **COBB Off-The-Shelf (OTS) Tune**: This option allows you to select the COBB OTS map. The COBB tuning maps for the Outback and Legacy XT models deliver enhanced power compared to the stock configuration and optimize the factory DAM (Dynamic Octane Management) octane sensing system. This integration fine-tunes calibration and safeguards the engine and drivetrain by adjusting engine load (boost), fuel enrichment, and ignition timing based on changes in DAM/Octane levels. Additionally, our tuning incorporates safety measures that monitor engine oil and intake air temperatures.
3. **AMBOT Tuned OTS**: We have developed our own OTS map after collaborating with several customers, resulting in a tune that offers increased power over the COBB OTS map. While these maps are somewhat custom, they are designed for a straightforward "flash and go" application. Power figures will be provided below.
4. **AMBOT Tuned Custom Tune**: This option involves a more tailored approach. We will create a base map for your vehicle based on its specific modifications. You will receive detailed instructions for data logging, which you will conduct. After we analyze the data logs, we will make adjustments to the map and return a revised version to you. This process will be repeated a few times to ensure optimal performance for your vehicle.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance with the tuning options available.
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Our Overview of the Engine and Transmission
I have been tuning Subarus for the past six years, with a particular focus on the FA20 platform, including the CVT variant. During this time, I have successfully tuned over 500 Subaru WRX CVT models from 2015 to 2021. Notably, I have encountered fewer than 20 transmission failures throughout these years. My approach has involved maintaining torque levels below 350 ft-lbs and customizing the boost curve to prevent excessive torque delivery at 3200 RPM. Additionally, I have tuned several of these vehicles on E30 blends without issues.
As we transition to the newer models, it is important to note that the transmission has been upgraded compared to previous years, although the exact limits are still uncertain. Through extensive analysis of data logs from customers with these newer models, it appears that 350 ft-lbs of torque may not be the ultimate limit. COBB Tuning has also conducted testing and reported that their setups can achieve torque levels of up to 380 ft-lbs without experiencing transmission slippage. My own data logs corroborate this, showing no signs of slippage at 350 ft-lbs of torque. In our OTS maps, we have targeted torque levels between 340 and 350 ft-lbs while also increasing horsepower at higher RPMs, successfully executing wide-open throttle pulls from first to fourth gear without slippage.
The new FA24 engine demonstrates the capability to handle substantial torque and power. However, it is essential to remain cautious and closely monitor data logs, especially considering the increased weight of the newer vehicles. This is one reason I prioritize implementing a custom boost curve in my tuning strategy.
Power Numbers
Below is a graph representing the performance of one of my customers, comparing the stock tune, COBB Off-The-Shelf (OTS) tune, and my customized OTS map.
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It is important to note that obtaining accurate virtual dyno results with CVT vehicles can be quite challenging. To address this, I imported the stock map and aligned the data with performance metrics observed on other dynos for these vehicles in their stock configuration. After the customer flashed the COBB OTS map and provided the corresponding logs, we engaged in a collaborative process to refine our version of the custom OTS map. This involved several rounds of data logging and revisions to ultimately achieve the final product.
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"This tune feels amazing. It was night and day going from OEM to Cobb’s 93 OTS map and I didn’t think it could get much better, but I was wrong. Anthony dialed this bitch in! It runs smoother and stronger than Cobb’s map and somehow feels safer even though it’s putting down more power. It pulls hard! The thing cooks for what it is lol And working with Anthony was a great experience. He made everything so easy and dude definitely knows what he’s doing. His process is solid and he’s clear, concise and thorough. I did what he asked when he asked, let him do his thing, and never waited long for replies back. Overall it was just a really positive experience.
- Michael P. Gould"
