AWE Exhaust Installation Guide for Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, Toyota 86 & Scion FR-S
Upgrading your exhaust system is one of the best ways to enhance both the sound and performance of your Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, Toyota 86, or Scion FR-S. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the installation of the AWE Touring Edition and AWE Track Edition exhaust systems.
This guide covers the following AWE part numbers:
- 3020-32279 – Track Edition (Chrome Silver Tips)
- 3020-33279 – Track Edition (Diamond Black Tips)
- 3015-32486 – Touring Edition (Chrome Silver Tips)
- 3015-33486 – Touring Edition (Diamond Black Tips)
Whether you’re going for the more aggressive Track Edition or the refined Touring Edition, the process is similar with some key differences we’ll point out.
Tools & Preparation
- Standard hand tools
- Torque wrench (capable of at least 60 ft/lbs)
- Jack stands or lift
- Exhaust hanger removal tool (recommended)
- Anti-seize compound
- New OE donut gasket (if needed, Subaru part #44022AA123)
- New Aftermarket Subaru donut gasket see part #GD-WS02
⚠️ Safety Note: Always work on a cool vehicle with secure jack stands or a lift.
Step 1: Remove the Factory Exhaust
- Remove the OE hardware at (A) – this will be reused.
- Detach the OE hanger bar from the rubber hanger at (B).
- Remove the OE hardware at (C) to release the OE midpipe.
- Remove the hanger bars from the four OE rubber hangers at (D) to free the OE muffler.
Step 2: Install the Resonated Inlet Section
- Install the AWE resonated inlet section (E49).
- Reuse the OE exhaust donut and hardware to attach it to the OE front pipe at (A).
- Support the rear of the pipe while tightening to ensure it centers on the donut.
- Confirm bolt shoulders are fully seated on the flange at (B).
💡 Tip: If your donut gasket is worn, replace it with Subaru part #44022AA123 or Turbo XS part #GD-WS02
Step 3: Clamp Orientation
- Arrow A: Shows the expanded pipe and preinstalled exhaust clamp.
- Arrow B: Demonstrates correct pipe overlap.
- Arrow C: Clamp positioned at edge of expanded pipe.
⚠️ Do not fully torque clamps yet. Final torque spec is minimum 60 ft/lbs after adjustment.
Step 4: Install Axle Tube
- Slide a 3-inch clamp over the AWE axle tube (E50).
- Slip it onto the resonated inlet section (E49) at (A).
- Insert the hanger bar into the OE hanger at (B), keeping it parallel to the ground.
- Snug, but do not fully tighten, the clamp.
Step 5: Track Edition Only – Install Rear Section
- Slide a 3-inch clamp over the axle tube (E50).
- Install the Track rear section (E52).
- Insert hanger bars into OE hangers at (A).
- Snug the clamp at (B).
Step 6: Track Edition Only – Install Tip Outlet Sections
- Slide a 2.5-inch clamp on each side of the Track rear section (E52).
- Install the AWE tip outlet sections (E53).
- Snug, but do not fully tighten.
Step 7: Touring Edition Only – Install Twin HR1 Section
- Slide a 3-inch clamp over the axle tube (E50).
- Install the AWE twin HR1 section (E51).
- Insert hanger bars into OE hangers at (A) and (B).
- Snug clamps, but leave loose for adjustments.
Step 8: Touring Edition Only – Connect Mid Sections
Follow AWE’s diagram to align and connect mid-sections with supplied clamps. Snug but do not torque yet.
Step 9: Install Exhaust Tips
- Slide exhaust tip over outlet tube.
- Insert carriage bolt through the tip tab, secure with nut.
- Use anti-seize on threads to prevent binding.
- If your kit only uses two tips, you’ll have extra hardware left over.
Step 10: Align & Tighten Exhaust Tips
- Position tips inside cutouts.
- Tighten clamps securely.
- If not centered, shift the rear section until alignment is correct.
Step 11: Track Edition Only – Lock Collars
Install lock collars at OE hanger positions (A) and (B).
Step 12: Touring Edition Only – Lock Collars
Install lock collars on rear-most hangers at (A) and (B).
Step 13: Final Adjustments
- Double-check tip alignment.
- Fully torque all clamps (minimum 60 ft/lbs).
- Heat cycle the exhaust by running the car, then allow it to cool before retightening.
- Re-check tip position after the system settles.
✅ Installation complete! Enjoy the sound of your AWE Tuning exhaust part #'s 3020-32279, 3020-33279, 3015-32486, 3015-33486.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a tune after installing an AWE exhaust?
A: No, both Track and Touring systems are designed for direct bolt-on installation without tuning.
Q: Can I install this in my garage?
A: Yes, but a lift makes the job much easier. Expect 1–2 hours with hand tools.
Q: How loud is the Track vs. Touring?
A: The Track Edition is more aggressive and suited for enthusiasts who don’t mind volume. The Touring Edition offers a refined balance of tone and comfort.
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