I've been enjoying the FiST in stock form for two years now, but I now own it (lease buyout) and it's time to start living up to my GRM Subscription. Step 1: K&N Filter
I dropped a K&N filter from Montune in the stock airbox. It sounds a little better and probably adds an HP or two. Montune actually uses the stock top for their cold air intake, so there can't be too much power wasted there, but it will probably get upgraded eventually.
Step 2: Hawk Street 5.0 Front Pads and HPS Rears
I could only find the newer 5.0 pads for the front, so I went with HPS on the back. The OEM pads were practically new back there, so I doubt much braking is going on anyway. The ESP uses the brakes, so the fronts get a real workout. So far, more dust, more braking.
Step 3 - StopTech Front Rotors
Better pads should clamp better rotors, so I upgraded the front disks as well. No chance to test fade at the track yet, but the stockers were pretty good so I expect the same or better from these.
Mmmmmm, brakey.
Step 4: Eibach Sway Bars
This one was a bit more involved, as you have to drop the front subframe to get to the front bar.
The size difference is significant, so the effort is probably worth it.
You can see that it is really tucked up there, I will post a complete How To when I find the time.
I put a rear bar on as well, MUCH easier. In fact, I will be taking it off for the remainder of the season to stay in HS. I know all about how bars in FWD cars should be done, but class rules are class rules.
Step 5: Cobb Motor Rotation Dampener
It does not mount the motor to the car, so I am calling a spade a spade. I had the front subframe off, so this was a natural thing to do while in there. Definitely has a positive effect on getting power to the ground. I feel more vibration in the car at idle, but that's a small price to pay.
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