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Time to read 12 min
Our lives as enthusiasts have experienced quite an interesting evolution. If you were to sit down and remember back when it all started you may be dumbfounded at the difference between the level of knowledge, preparation, and pure momentum that pushed you forward during those beginnings and the times you experience now. Truthfully, when we contemplate a project now, no matter what the complexity, we may confront a degree of concern, doubt, or stress, but it is guaranteed not to be at the level it was when we first decided to follow our passion and dedicate ourselves to this lifestyle. Also, when many are first bitten by this bug, they may think of the end results first instead of the uphill journey and the obstacles that must be conquered between each important step. Unless we are completely wrong to assume, but, isn't every major accomplishment achieved with a collaboration of passion, effort, determination, knowledge, preparation, skill, and some form of instrument to help exercise these elements into reality? It may boil down to the fact that eliminating one of these elements from this recipe may sabotage the overall project resulting in failure, or in most cases, huge delays, repeated missteps, or just plain poor performance. Sometimes we may get so excited to get started, we may fail at putting the proper plans in place, determining what we need to really succeed, and think about the project in a global sense by first investing more time and money into the proper preparation instead of all the bells and whistles. Notably, the overwhelming reality in pursuing any journey or undertaking stems from the nucleus of preparation .
The first thing an experienced enthusiast might say to the excited novice is, "Are you prepared?", "What are steps you need to take to make this happen?", or, most importantly, "Do you have the skills, experience, and the right tools to get the job done?" Pure logic indicates that the average new enthusiast does not have the experience, the knowledge, or the right tools to support that first series of dreams they see in their mind, but we all know that they do have the most important mixture of fuel to get the journey started: raw passion and determination. This fuel supported by the other important elements is what the evolution of the enthusiast is built upon. It is reasonable to assume that one of the last elements to complete this recipe is a quality set of specialized tools that will help any project move along more efficiently and safely. The Subaru enthusiast can benefit greatly from adding certain tools to their arsenal to avoid issues they have encountered in the past which has forced them to struggle and come up with a less than elegant solution just to get the task done. Whether you believe in the adage that a person is only as good as the tools they own, or that a good craftsman never blames his tools, you'll most likely agree that a smart enthusiast should always seek a better tool to solve his most difficult problem. The Subimods team is fortunate to include a number of experienced and skilled professionals who have employed the use of some specific, high quality, well-engineered tools to make their modifications and vehicle service close to seamless. We know one company that provides solutions for any enthusiast who strives to get the job done and do it well.
Every enthusiast dreams of a well-equipped garage space filled with amazing tools and plenty of room to get all your tasks and maintenance completed as quickly and efficiently as possible. Now, we all know that having that perfect workspace or mechanic's bay is not always in the cards. Most of us work out of our home garage which may need to be shared with a second car, lawn care tools, storage boxes, or fleets of bicycles that can make our wrench-turning life a little less glamorous. With all these things considered, it does not mean we cannot build a collection of good tools to make working in even the most challenging environments more efficient. As we mentioned earlier, we benefit from having some great talent on the Subimods team. One person in particular is veteran Subaru enthusiast and experienced mechanic Justin Rancourt who has not only been a valuable asset to our organization through his detailed knowledge of the brand and understanding of its history, but also because of the insight he brings through his hands-on skills and willingness to pass information forward into our ever changing community of modifiers. Justin has been with Subimods since January 2013 consistently applying himself through both his love for the brand and passion for motorsports to shine as an authority and example for the true enthusiast spirit. When we called on him to talk about some specific tools and applications which could not only benefit the maintenance and modification efforts of Subaru enthusiast, but also keep them efficient and safe, he did not hesitate to highlight a tool company that has not only become a proven staple for both the home mechanic and the professional driver, but for anyone who wants to get the job done the first time without having to take short cuts along the way.
The Canadian-based tool maker Company23 is an organization who is sharply focused on both quality and intelligent engineering. In these days of modern automotive technology it could be quite easy for a company to get lost in a sea of specialized manufacturing, design, and product development that promises big results that fit nicely in a broad market filled with lots of vehicle types with assorted configurations and specifications. As automotive enthusiasts we realize that there is not one standard set of tools that caters to every application. Unfortunately, even the most seasoned mechanic runs into scenarios that they never dreamed would happen. The removal of a specific seal, locking ring, bolt, nut, or even a part deep in the overall mechanism that is specific to the brand. This further confirms the need for tools to provide specialized solutions and make a difficult job much easier. From their home base in Brantford, Ontario, Company23 is operated by true Subaru enthusiasts who understand the need for specialized tools, parts and accessories for many Subaru models. They are focused on sharing a simple philosophy and belief that promotes the ease, enjoyment and efficiency of car maintenance and mechanics by providing quality, affordable aftermarket tools that have been specifically designed to fit, function, and work well for Subaru platforms, something that cannot be claimed by any other toolmaker. As an experienced Company23 user, Rancourt brings some needed and valuable insight regarding specific applications while incorporating their products during his experience. "Over the years of owning many Subarus, I’ve come to realize they are all pretty much the same when it comes to maintenance and working on them," Rancourt explained. "Yes, you can get away with some hacks on how to do specific jobs but in reality it just makes life easier using the correct tool for the job." With these points in mind, we would like to share details about the Top 3 Company23 Tools that Justin feels will make life easier for the Subaru enthusiast.
As we've learned, Company23 brings many years of wrench-turning tech, engineering, and precision machining to create better tools that help DIY enthusiasts, like Rancourt, gain some quality and dependability to their garage for an affordable investment. Truly, providing quality tools for detailed work is important and valuable to the enthusiast who looks at their car's lifespan long into the future. Considering this perspective, we all know that maintaining the correct timing on your vehicle is essential for proper operation and performance. According to Justin's experience in this area, a product available from this company is one that every Subaru enthusiast should have on hand to make the process more efficient and successful when required. "One of the most important sets of tools I have used when doing anything timing related would have to be Company23’s Cam Lock Tool along with the Cam Sprocket Tools.", Rancourt confirms. "When doing timing it is extremely important to line up the belt with the sprockets' timing marks so no valves get bent upon startup," he adds. "By using these tools you are able to lock them in place to properly align everything." Again, this is an important procedure that requires the appropriate tools to achieve success, basically affecting the engine's overall power, functional efficiency, and smooth operation. Adjusting the timing establishes when the engine's spark plugs fire during its combustion cycle. This also determines the exact moment when the engine's fuel should ignite. These tools would be an excellent investment to help do this job correctly. "Make your time making sure it’s done properly!", Rancourt adds, to drive home the importance of using quality tools during maintenance.
Moving onward into other territory, Rancourt illuminates another tool that he feels would be an essential addition to any Subaru enthusiast's workspace. The Cam Seal Installer from Company23 is an important tool that assists with the appropriate and accurate installation of DOHC cam seals. This is one of many specialized tools from Company23 that was designed to aid in this important process. This tool works on a number platforms that exist across the Subaru family of vehicles equipped with EJ Engines released between 2002 and 2021, including the WRX, STI, Forester XT, Legacy GT, the Outback XT, and the Baja Turbo. The Company23 Cam seal tool eliminates guesswork by perfectly setting proper seal depth without the risky use of a hammer which could result in the damage of an expensive component. After the seal is properly lubricated with engine oil, this tool allows the mechanic to both tighten and press the seal into position via a bolt which is included with the assembly. Careful tightening causes the tool to center itself on the shank of the bolt until it bottoms out, ensuring that the seal is installed perfectly. Company23 designers have created a robust and well-engineered tool manufactured from high quality, aircraft grade aluminum to guarantee that it lives in your toolbox for a long time. Justin selected this tool specifically and deemed it as an essential addition to the Subaru enthusiast toolkit due to its ability to work safely and avoid any unnecessary damage or challenges during the seal's installation. "In the past I have used sockets and other similar sized things to hammer in the seals", Rancourt explained, "I’ll be the first to admit this isn’t the best way of installing seals that are hiding behind the timing plastics." Confirming their contribution to efficiency, Rancourt adds, "Their Cam Seal Installer tools along with the Rear Main Seal Installers make installing seals extremely simple and ensure the seal is seated properly with no leaks! Using other things to install seals could cause the seal to be installed either too far in or crooked which can also cause oil leaks causing other headaches."
Finally, another important tool on Rancourt's list will prove to be a great investment for any serious Subaru mechanic who wishes to perform the removal of three major components with efficiency and ease without causing damage during the process. The Flywheel Locker from Company23 was smartly engineered to provide a solid lock on the flywheel to make the installation and removal of this component and the associated clutch bolts easier and safer for the mechanic. The Flywheel Locker was specifically created for a number of Subaru profiles and their gear tooth configurations while providing the mechanic with an accurate bolt torque setting when installing flywheel and clutch. This tool is an effective and helpful companion for those owners of the WRX, STI, BRZ, Impreza, Outback, Forester, Legacy, Crosstrek, and Baja's of all transmission types released between 1989 and the present. Proving itself to be well-engineered and manufactured with quality in mind, Company23 has created a tool crafted from thick gauge steel and precision cut by laser to ensure accurate fitment and operation during a process that demands careful precision and strength. "This tool makes taking off the Harmonic Balancer, Clutch Pressure Plate and also the Flywheel easy," Rancourt confirms. As with their design of their Cam Lock and Cam Sprocket Tools and the Cam Seal Installer, it is important to note how their attention to detail on this innovative tool left an important impression with a user and enthusiast as experienced as Rancourt. To align with all other members of our team, a tool or component that can ultimately keep enthusiasts safe, precise, and efficient while immersed in either maintenance or modification projects is a tool worth amplifying to the community along with the manufacturer that has developed its innovation and quality. Accuracy and installing components according to the specifications laid out for proper and safe operation are proven through the quality of the Company23 product line. "Just like uninstalling those items, this tool also makes installation with proper torque specs a no brainer!", Rancourt confirms. "No more trying to clamp anything in place or jamming a flat head screwdriver in the flywheel teeth anymore!" As Justin has positively confirmed, Company23 has created one more product that will not only help extend the life of the vehicle through proper maintenance, but will also allow the owner to function as a better mechanic.
Keeping in sync with the spirit of the vast Subaru community, we have again highlighted a product with the help of someone within the ranks who is an actual user and benefactor of positive results. Our ultimate reward as Subaru enthusiasts is the gold behind the feeling of both accomplishment and pride when associated with the vehicles we modify, display, and drive throughout the days, weeks, and years. Finding a better tool for your toolbox may not be the most exciting reward for the novice, but in time the value and the benefit will shine through as one of the best decisions you can make as a car owner. Some investments that bring a high performance or personality uplift to your car are costly, but a modification performed with inappropriate tools or using methods that will affect your vehicles performance and life will make a different type of needed investment hurt later. As home-based mechanics and enthusiasts, it is wise to invest in good tools that make your passions more enjoyable. These three offerings from Company23 are only a small example of what you could add to your collection to bring your capabilities to the next level. As Rancourt concluded so perfectly, "If you are having trouble taking something off your Subaru or installing a part, odds are Company23 has the correct solution to help with your project!"
Explore the possibilities and other Company23 offerings within the Subimods online catalog through the product rotator below and align yourself with the best tools and appropriate products to serve your Subaru well. If you cannot find what you need, contact a member of our team for more details.
Subimods continues to concentrate on providing aftermarket innovations and products that take the Subaru platform of your choice to new levels in the present and the future, no matter if you choose a more exciting, dynamic daily drive, a more exhilarating weekend on the track, or a more aggressive adventure overland and in the wild. We would be very interested in your thoughts regarding this article and would encourage your feedback and comments regarding the newest Subaru and how it competes with other cars in its class.
Write your comments below and continue this conversation. We are always thrilled to hear your opinions. THANK YOU!
For more information regarding aftermarket parts for your Subaru, please visit our website and explore the section dedicated to your platform. We would be happy to serve you!
Bryon Turcotte - Marketing Writer/Analyst
Turcotte has worked as a writer, journalist, and digital content developer for 30 years. He began his career in music journalism in 1995 then worked for several years as both a staff writer, managing editor, and a freelancer for both regional and national music publications. Over the next three decades his contributions extended beyond the music industry as he served within the realms of higher education, science and technology, manufacturing, and finance. He has been serving as a content developer and writer on the Subimods Marketing team since August 2023.
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