Tech Tips May 2014 (TIPS 0514)

Publication date: 2014-05-01
Reference number: TIPS 0514

TECH TIPS MAY 2014

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): TIPS 0514, Date of Issue: May, 2014

SUBARU:

All Models

03 2015 WRX SHORT THROW SHIFTER PRECAUTION

When installing a short throw shifter or servicing the factory shifter cables in the new 2015 WRX, use caution when removing the cables from the cable box. If care is not used, you might accidentally bend, twist or kink the shifter cables and damage may develop during use. Damage to the cables would be exhibited in the form of a shifting concern that could develop over time . The photo below shows a bottom view of both shift cables from underneath the vehicle.

Tips for removal of the box and cables (see below):

IMPORTANT: Lowering the cable box first and sliding it to the driver's side of the propeller shaft (BEFORE PULLING CABLES OUT OF THE BOX) will allow for more room and less stress on the cables during removal and reinstallation.

The service manual (MT Gear Select Cable/Control Systems) currently states:

Do not bend the MT gear select cable sharply.
Do not twist the inner cable excessively.

Damaged Cable due to excessive handling:

NOTE: The cable shown in this example initially operated and shifted normally after a short throw shifter was installed. This damage occurred after it had been driven.

Please share this information with any employee that may install accessories or service the factory shifter cables at your dealership.

11 MORE INFORMATION ON STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST SYSTEM SURFACE RUST

This article was originally released in the June, 2011 issue of TIPS but is being revised and rereleased with additional information. Unlike the stainless steel used in kitchen sinks, the 409 stainless steel used on Subaru OEM exhaust systems along with the 304 and/or 409 stainless steel used in our "Genuine Subaru Accessory Exhaust Systems" (e.g. SPT or STI) can display surface rust when exposed to heat and/or chemicals, such as those found in salty water. This surface rust does not penetrate through to the inside of the exhaust system. Therefore, there is no durability concern. Actually, once the surface rust develops, it works like a protective film. Surface rust is not to be considered a defect. Therefore, replacement for this reason would not be a warrantable repair. Replacement due to rust which compromises the structural integrity of the part (e.g. holes, cracks around flanges or along welds, etc.) would be warrantable. Should you receive a customer concern regarding surface rust, we have identified two products that will address this rusty appearance: ScotchBrite Heavy Duty scouring pads and LubFix. Lubfix is a body shop and environmentally-friendly, soy formulation containing no silicone (silicone can cause fish-eyes to appear in fresh paint work). Below are before and after pictures along with a picture of the LubFix and ScotchBrite products. LubFix sells for about $3.00 per can at most home improvement stores. For more information, including a MSDS sheet, contact 1-888-NUTEK4U or on the web at: www.nutekformulations.com.