How to Install PLM Bolt-On Turbo Upgrade on Subaru WRX VB

By Aftermarket Car Parts -Private Label Mfg | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Step-by-step guide to installing the PLM P660 bolt-on ball bearing turbo on your 2022+ Subaru WRX VB. Includes torque specs, common mistakes, and fitment tips.

Quick Answer

Install the PLM P660 bolt-on turbo on your 2022+ Subaru WRX VB by following the factory removal sequence in reverse, using new gaskets and proper torque. The ball bearing design drops in without custom fabrication, but you'll need to budget extra time for heat shield removal and oil line access.

Why the PLM P660 is a True Bolt-On

The PLM P660 is engineered for the FA24 engine in the 2022+ WRX VB, using the factory mounting points and oil/coolant lines. That means you won't need to modify the downpipe, intake, or charge pipes—the turbo housing is designed to match the stock flange locations.

Because it uses ball bearing technology instead of the factory journal bearing, the P660 spools faster and reduces turbo lag. The trade-off is that ball bearing turbos are more sensitive to oil contamination, so you should change the oil and filter before installation to protect the new unit.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather the following before you begin: a new turbo gasket kit, fresh engine oil and filter, a torque wrench, a set of metric sockets and extensions, a pry bar for stubborn heat shields, and a drain pan. You'll also need a second person to help lift the turbo into place—it's heavy and awkward to position alone.

If you have a 6MT WRX, the shifter cables run close to the turbo area. It's a good idea to disconnect them for extra clearance, but mark their position first to avoid shifting issues later.

Installation Steps

1. Disconnect Battery and Drain Coolant: Disconnect the negative battery terminal and let the engine cool completely. Drain the coolant from the radiator drain plug into a clean container. This prevents hot coolant from spraying when you remove the water lines from the turbo. Check that the engine is below 100°F before touching any coolant line.
2. Remove Heat Shields and Airbox: Unbolt the turbo heat shields and the factory airbox. Use a pry bar gently on stubborn shields, but avoid bending the mounting tabs. Set the hardware aside in a labeled bag—you'll reuse it for the new turbo. Spray penetrating oil on the heat shield bolts the night before to prevent snapping them.
3. Disconnect Oil and Coolant Lines: Use a flare nut wrench to disconnect the oil feed, oil return, and coolant lines from the turbo. Have a drain pan ready—residual oil will spill. Plug the open lines with clean rags to keep debris out. Inspect the banjo bolts for crushed washers and replace them if they show wear.
4. Unbolt the Turbo from the Up-Pipe and Downpipe: Remove the bolts connecting the turbo to the up-pipe and downpipe. Support the turbo with one hand while you remove the final mounting bracket bolt. Lower it carefully—it weighs around 30 pounds. Have a second person help lift the turbo out to avoid dropping it on the subframe.
5. Transfer the Actuator and Install the PLM P660: If your PLM P660 does not come pre-fitted with an actuator, transfer the factory wastegate actuator using the same bracket and rod length. Install new gaskets on the up-pipe and downpipe flanges, then mount the PLM P660 in reverse order of removal. Double-check the actuator rod length matches the factory setting before tightening the lock nut.
6. Reconnect Lines and Refill Fluids: Reconnect the oil and coolant lines using new crush washers. Torque the banjo bolts to 25 ft-lb and the flange bolts to 30 ft-lb. Refill the engine with fresh oil and coolant, then prime the turbo by cranking the engine with the fuel pump fuse pulled for 10 seconds. Verify all clamps and bolts are tight before you reconnect the battery.
7. Test for Leaks and Drive: Start the engine and let it idle for 5 minutes. Check for oil or coolant leaks around the turbo. Take a short test drive, then re-check the bolts and lines for any loosening after the heat cycle. Look for smoke from the exhaust—blue smoke means an oil leak, white smoke means coolant.

Product Spotlight

PLM Bolt-On Ball Bearing Turbo Upgrade P660 - Subaru WRX VB 2022+: The PLM Bolt-On Ball Bearing Turbo Upgrade P660 for the 2022+ Subaru WRX VB is designed for easy, bolt-on installation and delivers enhanced power and reliability through ball bearing technology. You can complete the swap with standard hand tools in a weekend, and the ball bearing cartridge provides quicker spool and longer service life than the factory unit.
PLM Bolt-On Ball Bearing Turbo Upgrade P660 - Subaru WRX VB 2022+