Process West Black Top Mount Intercooler w/ Shroud Subaru Forester XT 2004-2008 | PWTMIC08B-KIT

Product Fitment:

2004-2008 Subaru Forester XT

Note: 2004-2005 Forester XT Owners will need a 2002-2005 WRX style blow off valve and recirculation hose to use this intercooler.

The Process West Top Mount Intercooler (TMIC) Kit is engineered with one clear objective—to deliver the best-performing aftermarket top mount intercooler for the Subaru platform. By addressing the most common failures in intercooler design—poor ducting, excessive core thickness, and uneven airflow distribution—this system sets a new benchmark for cooling efficiency, consistency, and real-world performance.

The Critical Factor: Proper Ducting

Many aftermarket intercoolers increase core size but fail to upgrade the ducting. Retaining the factory splitter can leave up to 50% of the intercooler without airflow, dramatically reducing effectiveness.

Process West eliminates this issue with a custom-designed splitter, engineered specifically for the upgraded core. This ensures 100% airflow coverage across the entire surface, maximizing cooling efficiency and eliminating wasted performance potential.

Optimized Core Thickness (90mm vs 114mm)

While some competitors use oversized 114mm cores, thicker is not always better—especially in top mount applications where airflow must already change direction through the hood scoop.

Process West Solution:

• Uses a 90mm (3.5”) core
• Optimized for airflow and heat exchange balance

Result:

• Lower outlet temperatures
• Reduced airflow restriction
• More consistent power delivery

High-Flow Silicone Y-Pipe

The included custom-molded silicone Y-pipe is engineered to deliver even charge air distribution across the entire intercooler core.

Unlike conventional designs that favor one side, this system ensures:

• Balanced airflow across both banks
• Improved cooling efficiency
• Maximum utilization of the upgraded core

Complete System Engineering

This is not just a larger intercooler—it’s a fully integrated cooling solution. The intercooler core, splitter, and Y-pipe are designed to work together to deliver optimal performance in both street and track conditions.

Data-Driven Performance

Dyno Testing Results (Back-to-Back):

• Power Output:
  • Process West: 115.5 kW
  • Factory: 107.5 kW
• Intercooler Outlet Temps (Single Run):
  • Process West: 51°C
  • Factory: 66°C
• Heat Soak Simulation (Multiple Runs):
  • Factory Intercooler: Up to 84°C and rising

Real-World Street Performance

On-road testing highlights the true advantage:

• Process West System: ~43°C max under aggressive driving
• Factory Intercooler: ~72°C and continuing to rise

Real-world benefits include:

• Stronger, more consistent power delivery
• Improved throttle response
• Reduced heat soak
• Better engine reliability under sustained load

Key Features:

• Complete TMIC system (intercooler, splitter, silicone Y-pipe)
• Optimized 90mm core thickness
• Custom splitter for 100% airflow coverage
• Even airflow distribution across entire core
• Significant reduction in intake air temperatures
• Proven gains in horsepower and thermal performance
• Designed for real-world street and track use

Performance Benefits:

• Lower intake air temperatures
• Increased and consistent horsepower
• Improved throttle response
• Reduced ECU timing pull under load
• Enhanced reliability for high-performance builds

Note:

• Designed as a complete system—install all components for optimal performance
• Professional installation recommended
• Proper ducting alignment is critical for best results