Page 2 - fiestast

We're back with another update! Our team has been busy constructing our functional Ford Fiesta ST (FIST) intercooler prototypes, putting a lot of work into the R&D design stages, and now we get to see if it pay off. Enough of the wait, lets jump right into some images of our five prototype coolers.

Ford Fiesta ST intercooler prototypes

Ford Fiesta ST intercooler prototypes

A few weeks ago we completed our first set of prototype pipes. After a quick evaluation by our team, it was time for a vehicle test fit. Last week we set our Fiesta ST (FIST) up on a lift and began swapping the stock piping for our components.

First, the hot-side pipe was bolted into place.

Mishimoto Fiesta ST performance parts installed

The hot-side pipe slid into place perfectly. Our mounting bracket lined up, and the hardware properly secured the pipe into place.

The cold-side pipe was a bit more challenging to install, but soon we had it in place as well.

It has been a while since we took a look at what is going on in the world of the Fiesta expansion tank. In our last post we test fitted our 3D-printed prototype on the Fiesta ST. After fitment was confirmed, we played the waiting game for our final prototype's arrival at our development facility. Our best efforts at being patient paid off when we had two packages arrive this morning!

Fiesta ST expansion tank

Fiesta ST expansion tank

Each expansion tank comes with an overflow hose

Good news! Our first prototype intercooler pipe kit is complete. We can now evaluate both fitment and functionality on our Fiesta. Let's take a look at each pipe we created.

Prototype Cold-Side

First we have the more complex pipe of the pair, the cold-side.

Fiesta ST charge pipe prototype

Complexity comes in the way of multiple bends combined with numerous pipe-mounted features. To the right side of the pipe, you can see the flat flange that serves as a mounting point for the factory pressure sensor. This flange is CNC-machined to provide a proper seal.

We left off development with a neat look at our first prototype, when we determined the shape and path of our brace and printed out mounting brackets for each side of the piece. By using specific angles with our square material, we were able to avoid modification of the seat mounting bracket, retain rigidity, and provide a bar that is easily hidden by the rear tray.

Our last image showed our fabricator tacking together the material. Below is what we ended up with.

Prototype Fiesta ST rear strut brace installed

We then installed the floor panel mounting covers.

It's been a while since our last update on the Fiesta ST cat-back exhaust and we are excited to let you in on the details of the final prototype! The last detail to square away was the exhaust tips. While the tips we had were decent, we found them a little on the plain side so we switched it up. Rather than the single-wall tips, we went with a dual-walled setup that we think look much better on the ST and will hold up better over time. Check out some photos below!

Fiesta ST exhaust tips

Chassis rigidity is extremely important for on-track handling, response, and feel. Ford provides a well-designed chassis with the Fiesta; however, as you can imagine, there is always room for improvement. Within the short time that this car has been available, the aftermarket has provided some great options, including better dampers, stiffer springs, and thicker sway bars, to enhance handling.

Our company will not likely dip into struts or springs, but we are certainly interested in helping stiffen the chassis. Our Mustang EcoBoost front strut tower brace is underway, and we recently launched development of a Fiesta ST rear strut brace. Time to get started!

What's The Plan?

Our goal here is to link one side of the rear trunk area to the other. You may wonder why this is needed. Doesn't the floor/body connect the two sides? Yes, but keep in mind, the floor is not made from a thick material. During aggressive cornering, the floor will see some pretty

After installing the Fiesta ST induction hose, it was time for the moment of truth! The Fiesta is once again up against the dyno to see what this induction hose brings to the table.

Installing the Fiesta induction hose on the ST

Fiesta ST on the dyno for Fiesta induction hose testing

Initially we were expecting this hose to help with flow through the intake, but we were certainly surprised by the results. Our little Fiesta saw gains of 5whp and 10wtq with this induction

We received our final silicone prototype for testing and got straight to installing it on our Fiesta ST. This install is a breeze! After removing two quick clamps and a barb fitting, the stock hose was out and the Mishimoto hose was installed and looking good. Take a look at our black hose option installed on the Fiesta ST.

Fiesta ST induction hose in relation to other Fiesta ST parts

Fiesta ST induction hose installed

Stock Cold-Side Features

We had it pretty easy during the design phase of our hot-side intercooler pipe. A simple design with relatively common features, not overly complicated. The cold-side is a different story.

Stock Fiesta ST charge pipe

As you can see, this pipe features a few complex pieces and also follows an unusual path. On the right side at the top of this image, you can see the end of the pipe that mates to the intercooler coupler and hose. This portion of the pipe also houses a pressure sensor, a mounting bracket, and a vacuum-line port.