Subaru Forester Off Road Build
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- čas přidán 25. 06. 2024
- Detailed build info with explanations.
More info in the video description.
I'm happy to help if you have any questions!
Tom the Dilettante Sway Bar Video:
• Rear Crosstrek Sway Ba...
My Lightbar Install Video:
• Magnetic Lightbar with...
My Dashcam Install Video:
• Subaru Eyesight Dash C...
Fire Extinguisher
amzn.to/3mLVBAY
Scan Gauge
amzn.to/3uO8QDT
Ironman Suspension
ironman4x4america.com/2-all-t...
Primitive Racing Skid Plates (Get the "Front Lip ADD-ON")
get-primitive.com/skidplates/...
2" Trailer Hitch
torkliftcentral.com/2019-suba...
Subaru P05A1 active grille air shutter FIX / DELETE
www.thingiverse.com/thing:424...
If you're looking for another link, just ask in the comments.
0:00 Intro
1:17 Tires
3:11 Wheels
3:57 Suspension
7:04 Skid Plates
8:07 Winch Bumper
10:22 Air Intake
11:42 Scan Gauge II
12:24 Transmission Cooler
13:22 Trailer Hitch
13:54 Lights and electrical
14:37 Fire Extinguisher
15:10 Free Mods - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Here is some good trail footage of it in action! czcams.com/video/HgASl1TvbYI/video.html
That's awesome man!
subaru gave up on off road vehicles the day they switched to cvt transmissions lol
Does your Ford Excursion buddy have a channel too? I'm wondering about his behind-the-grille lightbar install. Many thanks for the share btw, 🙏
i like how he actually goes into detail and explains everything instead of bragging about the price of the mods
"Here's what I did, and this is why I did it." Such a simple format that I wish more people would follow! I'm not super knowledgeable about cars but I feel like I learned a bit through this video
I follow dozens of car youtubers and have never heard any of them brag about how much something cost...
That’s just dual cabers in general, they have small egos 😂
Nothing on this built is remotely expensive anyway😂
Just the information alone ???? This man is going places... A million thumbs up!!!
Many thanks! 😄
Agreed! Enjoyed the video!
spending the money on mods instead of the body is peak auto enthusiast, I have to commend you for being this smart
This has to be the greatest vid for new Forester owners interested in off road modifications
Thanks you so much! 😄
I don’t have any intention on modding my Forester, but I really enjoyed this video. I like how you include your thought process and explain concepts with math and visuals
Thanks! It has been a fun project. I figured that since I'm one of the first people to modify the SK version, I should share my knowledge.
I think slightly better tires and extra under protection are the best mods people can get.
Great video. This should be a mandatory introduction bible for anyone looking to build a funbaru
Thanks! That is what I was going for actually! :)
The best tutorial on modifying a Subaru Forester for off-roading I've seen. Great job and thank you.
Thank you! 😄
@@MatthewHeiskell How does it handle at freeway speeds? 70+ MPH ?
It feels fine even at highway speed because it has such a low center of mass. The shape of the boxer engine allows it to be mounted really low, that’s why Porsche uses it. Also, it’s a unibody car, so the center of mass is lower than a body on frame vehicle. You can delete the rear sway bar with any sacrifice, but deleting the front one makes a bit of difference. Luckily, you can just remove the endlinks and go for a test drive. A lot of people just delete the rear one, but you can test it and reconnect them if you don’t like it.
Very good video also the cat at 5:02 is very appreciated
Haha thanks! 😄
A power packed video full of tons of information...much appreciate all your legwork for the rest of us!! 👍🏼
I really appreciate hearing that! 😄
Great video. Very informative and not long winded. Straight to the point and well organized. Keep doing what your doing.
Thanks! 😊
You are a able story teller.listenable,Charming,clear.thank you
333 (:
Hands down best Forester build out there and this guy knows his shit. Slowly building up my Forester Wilderness to match this level. Excellent work and inspiring to the Forester off-road community. Keep posting!
Many thanks! \^o^/
Absolutely. Without a doubt. THE best Subaru off road build video on the web. I wish someone had a video EXACTLY like yours, for an SH Forester!! FANTASTIC work brother.
Rare to click Thumb's Up in the first 5 seconds but I love the fact you delineated the video. Cheers!
Thank you! 😄
This was the single best subi video I've ever seen. I'm never leaving this channel.
Wow, thank you!
Thank you very much for the info. We are going to implement several of your mods to our Outback.
This is a FANTASTIC video! Super informative and a great resource! Great work and thanks for the shout out too :) Your editing, storyboarding and content layout is really great! Videos like this set the bar nice and high and give me something to aspire to myself. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Tom! That means a lot coming from the KING of production quality! 😁
Matt, dude, this has got to be the best Forester mod vid ever! Seatbelt beep... LOL! Thanks so much!
THANKS FOR THE THINKING! I especially liked the tip about upgrading the suspension to carry heavier camping loads.
seriously great info. Clear, concise, and comprehensive. Thank you
Thanks! I'm glad it was helpful! 😁
From hail damage, to trail damage! xD Nice build, love to see a new vehicle modified and made better than stock!
Haha I like that! 😄 Thanks, I think that the hail damage actually helped me get past that initial fear. Cheers! 😃
Very impressed by your details of each mod. No over the top brags on how much stuff costs or video of just the mods. Just got me a 3rd gen forester and these mods are perfect. Thanks for the video. You earned a new sub.
Thanks! A/T tires, disconnecting or removing the sway bars and skid plates are the 3 most important things. Good luck on your build!
Eventually, once I get a second. Better Subaru outback then the one I have now.
I'm definitely looking to do some upgrades. This is a perfect guide for starters such as myself. Thank you!
Appreciate the production value of this video. You cover a lot with great visuals. Rad project!
Thanks for taking the time to write that nice comment! I appreciate it! 😄
VERY cool build man! Seriously, that's a badass Forester!
Thanks haha 😁
trying to find some nice mods and this man pulls out the trigonometry, great video
Hahaha thanks man!
I greatly appreciate all your research and information. Those are some amazing mods
Thanks for that nice comment! 😄 I’m glad that you enjoyed it!
Very informative and well made video, thanks for sharing! I will be buying a 2013 Forester, so this is exactly what I need!
Hey i know this video is 2 years old but thought I'd let you know Subaru now has an OEM 2" hitch for the Forester Wilderness, but it will fit the other trims. And it comes with the OEM wiring harness and template to trim the bumper cover.
Great build, thanks for making this video. I've already got my skid plates, Ironman lift is ordered, and I'm planning for rock sliders, and designing a winch bumper for my FW.
I also really, really wish someone would make a snorkel kit for the 2019+ Foresters. Down here in Houston, the streets in my neighborhood regularly flood 2 feet deep.
Wow! Your built FW is going to be awesome! Thanks for the info on the 2” hitch. Yeah, a snorkel would be really nice!
Excellent informative video, thank you for taking the time and doing it so professionally. You’ve helped me a lot.
I'm happy to help! Let me know if you have any questions down the road. Thanks for taking the time to write that nice comment! 😄
Thank you so much for your information. I'm modifying a 2016 Forezter XT and I really appreciate your experience. Currently sits on a 2"lift and allterains. Treating me very well
Right on! That’s about all you really need, but a skid plate or two would be nice.
@@MatthewHeiskell Ihave all terrains that gave a good lift. Trying out 235 60 18s. Mild trails. shallow streams. Skid plates are coming next.
Liked and subscribed my man! Awesome video with loads of info. Love how you cut straight to the chase, no fluff bs.
Thanks! I appreciate that!
Really nice video and explanation. Like your Forester's stance and overall mod's.
Thanks, I appreciate you taking the time to write that! 😁
One of the most detailed video on youtube ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you so much! 😁
This was a well made video with LOTS of info. Thank you!
Thanks for the nice comment! I’m happy to help!
What a friggin bad ass build. Very very informative and helpful video thank you
Thanks! 😊
Just picked up a 21 forester sport
Liked and subbed
Thanks for all this helpful information
You will Not Regret it...
I Really Enjoy my
hi, whats the mileage you get from it?
Great video dude! Love to hear other peoples mods. I didn't realize these newer foresters needed so much work for a bumper to work. Makes me glad I got an older one haha. Looks great though you did fantastic on the bumper!
Many thanks! 😄 yeah, the OG Foresters are too legit, haha
great vid man...very informative...good attention to detail and listing all the little problem areas owners may have, along with the available solutions...
Thanks! I really appreciate that!
Hey man, those skid plates look soooooo good on your ride!!!
Now I know what I want for christmas, Thanks!!!
Yoooo, this was such an informational video, and you threw us the free mod adjustment on the seat and seatbelt noise, cooler than sh1t yo, i think a lot of us appreciate it! Thanks man
Thanks for taking the time to write that nice comment, it is really encouraging!
Very cool subaru! Good job on the modification.
Thanks for taking the time to write that! 😊
Awesome video, everything in one video. No fluff. I have a 2020 Forester and might be doing a few of these things in the future. Will definitely save this video for the info later.
Prefect! I was hoping that this video would be a resource like you're describing. Thanks! 😄
Excellent sharing....
I like the way u step by step explains the process.
Nice build and one of the best videos I've watched in a long time!
Thanks! 😃
wow this was the most in-depth, informative, and engaging review ever..and I don't even own a subaru!
Thanks for taking the time to write that, I appreciate it! 😄
@@MatthewHeiskell yeah man! Can't wait to see more videos! ( me hoping somehow this will translate to my unibody Ridgeline)
@@hukmai Yeah, a lot of it will transfer over. You should look for sway bar quick disconnect endlinks. That makes a HUGE difference off road.
This video was so well done and straight to the point. Wow. Thank you
Mate your awesome ,so explanatory and great detailing. Keep them coming
I’ll try! Thanks for the nice comment!
You're my HERO! I finally got that annoying seat belt alarm turned off!!!
Game changer right, right?! You'll have to do it again if you ever disconnect the battery and reset the car's computer. Hey, did you know that there is a similar process to disable the keyless entry beeps? Just google it if you want to do that too.
Outstanding. I can't even imagine this level of detail and mods. Terrific Job.
Thanks!
Jeez!
Young man, your video is on point and super helpful, thank you for this.
I'm looking at getting the 2022 Wilderness Edition Forester in Black and then slowly building up my mods from there. I've saved this video for reference.
Thanks again, you really hit this video out of the park!!
Thanks Fred! I really appreciate you taking the time to write this nice message! That would be an excellent vehicle choice! I would suggest that you upsize the tires to 245/65R17 all terrains and add all three Primitive Racing skidplates and you’re good to go! Maybe a 1” spacer lift too. You can get one of those for Sub $200 from ADF. Technically the Ironman suspension is better than the upgraded Wilderness suspension, but not enough to justify the cost. The Wilderness already has a transmission cooler. It also has exclusive lower gearing in the front and rear diffs, sooo helpful off road. Don’t let Subaru deceive you, that metal factory skid plate is a joke. Super thin. Let me know if you have any questions as you go! Oh! One last thing! Have you considered waiting for the Crosstrek Wilderness? I’ve heard awesome rumors about it! Cheers!
Very nice video Matt! Clean fab. Good info. Thanks!
I learned more from this video than my PhD program.
That is some VERY high praise! Thank you! 😀
perfect transformation 👍❤️
Thanks! 😁
Great Video, loads of information. Thanks!!
What a quality video and awesome build. Immediately subbed!
This is Mika from the Facebook group that was very informative. Since my forester is a lease I can’t do none of that stuff. Once my lease is up I will probably upgrade to the wilderness edition since I am a bit nervous of messing something up. Who knows what will happen in 2 years.
Anyways great video.
Cool! That’s a good plan! In my opinion, the most important change included in the wilderness package is the new lower gearing. Ironman still offers more ground clearance and more travel/articulation than the wilderness suspension, but changing both of the differential’s gearing is really a factor only improvement. I’m a big fan of the wilderness version! It is awesome that Subaru is listening to their drivers!
the best mod here is the seatbelt chime. Will definitely go and do that now
I know, right? 😄 I also disabled the remote entry beeps. It still honks if you hit lock three times, and the light still flash like normal, but it is quieter. The instructions are ridiculously funny:
1) Sit in the driver's seat and shut all doors
2) Press the unlock door button
3) Insert the key into the ignition
4) While holding down the unlock button, pull the key out and re-insert it into the ignition switch at least 5 times within 10 seconds after performing step 2.
5) Open and close the driver's door within 10 seconds after performing step 4.
6) If you did it correctly the turn signal lights will flash 3 times.
this actually works! while i was doing it I was thinking this must be a joke lol. I noticed it turns the seatbelt warning light off as well. do you know if it affects anything else?
@@fuzzymcfurface7289 I doubt it... I’ve tried a few times since watching and haven’t gotten it to work yet. Guess I’ll keep trying Bc forums say it’s not super scientific
@@fuzzymcfurface7289 Yeah, the instructions are funny! Do you mean the safety stuff like airbags? All of that should still be enabled. I don't think that Subaru can legally disable that stuff.
@@MatthewHeiskell thanks for that tip, it was really annoying how the dinging would not shut off even if the car was put back in park.
the most informative and well said 4x4 forester video!!! Great job and Thank you.
Many thanks! 😄
This is badass!
Just bought 2018 forester XT
Going to try a few of these mods when warranty is up
Awesome! You got the latest forester that has a turbo! 😄
Cat appearance at 05:00! Nice video, my dude
Hahaha you're exactly right! 😆
Sounds like someone accidentally stepped on his tail.
@@davek9378 Haha she makes all kind of crazy sounding meows. I think she is trying to howl like a dog sometimes haha
Lol.
I gave a like for the words "CVT Juice"
Love the video! Great info and a reasonable amount of time spent on each topic. Thank you and keep up the good work!
Thanks for your encouragement! 😄
great video with solid explanation on why and how + names of products.
Thanks
Thanks! Glad it was helpful! 😄
idk about riding your "torque converter" with that cvt... sweet build
Thanks! Yeah, that makes the transmission get hot, but the transmission cooler prevents it from getting too hot. The scan gauge is so useful for monitoring it. I heard that you can set alarms to beep when certain temps are reached.
You did amazing work hacking away at that approach angle. I was all onboard, this is a dope build until I saw the three letters of death C V T. I forgot they don't even offer the manual anymore.
Yeah, a lot of people hate the CVTs too. They got a bad reputation because the early ones were crappy, but in 2014 they switch to a stronger, more reliable version. I've been thrashing mine pretty hard and it is holding up well. I just wish the lowest ratio was a little lower. But I always have my winch as a backup to get me moving again.
Yes cvt is dumb for off or on road. Especially for anyone that actually likes driving. Weird this all the Subaru in Brazil all seem to be automatic...very strange because most cars here are manual. I miss my Baja 5speed turbo
I upgraded the tires on my 2010 Forester last year to the Falken Wildpeaks you mentioned, and am very happy with them. They have great traction on dry or wet pavement, and perform well in mud and snow as well. At the same time I upsized from the stock 225-55R17s to 235-60R17s. They are about as big as I think you can go on the SH chassis without a significant lift, but do not rub.
Absolutely perfect! 😄 The SH is what "Soft Roading the West" had, right?
@@MatthewHeiskell That I don't know, but now I have something to check out.
incredible video, giving great information for all viewers. i was expecting to see at least 50k subs when i looked. youll get there soon
I think 2018 was the last year of the manual transmission in the Forester.
But you chose to build a "trail rig" around a CVT, the single biggest limiter of late model Subarus off-road ability...
Looks good.
Thanks! Even if you gave me the choice now, I would stick with my CVT. It lets me go slow and ride the torque converter. I think I would burn the clutch trying to go that slow with a manual. The first CVTs were weak, but I haven’t heard anything bad about the recent ones. And I’ve done quite a bit of durability testing haha
@@MatthewHeiskell literally every expert says that Subaru ruined the off-road Heritage by switching to cvts.
Maybe they have improved them, and they no longer cut power to preserve themselves.
@@deejayimm Bruceyyyyy made a video about the ECU cutting power to protect the CVT transmission. czcams.com/video/xLEyk5Y9fPo/video.html I think it is a good idea, because it helps prevent you from breaking something. It usually means that you need to pick a better line or angle on the obstacle. It is still plenty capable. And the CVT was necessary for Subaru to be able to have competitive MPGs with full time all wheel drive.
@@MatthewHeiskell ok
I've seen this car a dozen times and never noticed the hail damage.
Mine has a bunch too that I haven't got around to fixing. It's most noticeable on the roof and hood.
Never thought about pocketing the diminished value. HMMMMM
nice build. I left this video never knowing i could disable that seat belt chime. Thankyou sir.
Great video...I have always wanted to lift a Subaru Forester....this video gives a lot of info on what to do...thanks
Thanks! They make great soft roaders that are comfortable, safe, and efficient.
If you’re serious about off roading don’t get vehicle with CVT lol kidding very cool build great job man!
Hahaha they have a bad reputation, because the early ones were crap. Thanks Adam!
Great build! Agree to disagree on CVT. Mountain passes and any rock crawling will still be an issue
@@Moab12 Hahaha 🤣 its definitely not a rock crawler!
Thanks for the inspirational mods. I also have a 2019 Forester Premium. I haven't done offroading yet but i have been doing a lot of long distance highway driving. Here in Australia it is a must to have frontal protection against collisions with large animals...thus the only mod I made is installing a "roo bar" from East Coast Bullbars ($1200). The bar has already paid off because it saved my Forester from being towed after a kangaroo strike on my recent holiday road trip. Im not sure i would make anymore future mods apart from AT tyres because it would invalidate my 7 year vehicle warranty. Are you worried about your Forester warranty given your extensive mods ?
Oh cool! I’m glad to hear that you got the roo bar BEFORE the hit! If I have a catastrophic engine or transmission failure, I’ll put most of the things back to stock before taking it to the dealership 😄
I own a really nice1999 Mitsubishi Montero, and it has incredible off-road capabilities, but those Subarus would definitely be my next car
im at work so skimmed through this with no audio, and i am now excited about the weekend.
i have an SJ but suspect there is much information here which will be useful. many thanks in advance.
Oh yeah! For sure! 😃
Love the video! Looking at adding some of these mods to my 2018 Outback. Question, what is the site you used for the tire size comparison?
Thanks! I used this website: tiresize.com/calculator/
There is a tab to select “Tire Comparison”
I'm glad I clicked on your video. I have been looking for a suitable fire extinguisher for my subie.
Awesome! Yeah, it’s a perfect fit!
Please consider adding a retention strap or bracket. I had an extinguisher stuffed in a door pocket and during a collision and partial rollover the extinguisher went airborne and nearly struck a passenger. Fortunately everyone emerged without major injury but I would have felt real bad if it was my fire extinguisher that was the cause of an injury.
@@theseeker104 Wow! That's a good point! I'll work something out.
This is a super well thought out build!
Many thanks! 😄
Your wasting your time without low range gearing
Yeah, I really wish that I had low range, but it is decently capable without it. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
That’s the difference between a soft roader and off roader.
@@JeepCherokeeful I've never heard that distinction, but it makes perfect sense! 😲 I really like that! Thanks! 😄
@@MatthewHeiskell yes. I own an Outback and had an XJ in the past. No way any Subaru, modified or stock, would make it over certain obstacles. But all modified/customized vehicles are awesome.
Amazing video, i have a barebones manual '15 SJ i plan to do a lot with, and this video had so much good information in it!
Awesome! That’s a cool project! 😄
AWESOME INFO and BUILD! THANKS" new sub from Idaho!
Many thanks!!! 😄
Wow what a great 👍 video. Thanks 🙏
ya love to see it! i might buy a forester and this is making me want one even more
I really love mine! It is a perfect balance between daily drivability and off-road capability!
The seatbelt chime disabling technique is funny as fuck, and it works!
Haha yeah, it feels like someone is pranking you the first time to try it. But it works! 😄
Very useful information 👍🏼
My wife's 17 Outback took $12,000 in hail damage. They cut off the roof skin and reskinned it, replaced the hood, and the rear hatch had major repairs. You have quite a build! Thanks for sharing.
Oh wow! That's a LOT of damage! Glad to hear that they fixed it! Thanks! Cheers! 😁
@@MatthewHeiskell I was shocked insurance did it, but I guess 12k in repairs is OK on a 27k car.
Great vid.. glad I stumbled upon it.. thanks for all the info and detailed explanations.. been looking to get the iron man suspension lift kit for a year now, but been hesitant about it and been tryin to do a lot of research on what would be best for off road build.. your vid got locked in for the iron man now.. haha.. all the build mods you discussed greatly.. thanks again
Awesome! Let me know if you have any future questions!
Wow did you do your homework! I'm sure a lot of trial and error too.
Really, really cool that you shared your set up, reasoning, tips, prices, part numbers, etc. Amazing.
Wish you did a RAV4, lol, that's how I stumbled on this, searching.
Thanks! The RAV4 is a very similar platform!
Good vid! THANK YOU! Good info!
Going do the same with my RAV4 ‘16, in Montreal!
Takecare ❤
Awesome! Pretty much all of the modification concepts should transfer over to your Toyota. 😄
I own a 4runner, not a Forester, but I do really like your build and the commitment to DIY.
Thanks! 4runners are awesome! What have you done to yours?
@@MatthewHeiskell Nothing major, but soon enough I'm installing new suspension and some 33 AT tires :) Looking at either Bilstein 5100's or OME's
@@dusk7519 Noice! 😁
Very good info. Thanks for the video
You did a great job on this vid!
Thank you! 😄
Great modification great details, you just Convert me to buying Subaru now.
Congratulations, looks awesome !!!
I bought forester 2021 a month ago, I will try to modify mine like you did when the 5 year warranty expires
Congratulations!
Thank you !
great video, love the cat going berserk at 5:0x lolz.
JTFC! I saw the thumbnail and damn! Well done on the Subaru Forrester off-road build!
Thanks! Haha 😁
Awesome Mods... and thank you for sharing
I’m happy to help! Thanks for writing that nice comment! 😁
Excellent, thank you very much