Race-Proven Subaru Motors | Built by Crawford Performance - Crawford Performance

Race-Proven Subaru Motors | Built by Crawford Performance

In the world of performance, talk is cheap. Horsepower numbers can be inflated, and marketing claims often fall short in the real world. That’s why decades of professional racing experience matter. It’s the ultimate proving ground, where theories are tested and only the strongest components survive. Every engine we build is the direct result of countless hours on the track and rally stages. We’ve seen what works, what fails, and what it takes to build a motor that delivers consistent, reliable power under the most extreme conditions. This legacy of competition is forged into every component, giving you access to true Race-Proven Subaru Motors | Built by Crawford Performance that are built on a foundation of victory, not just promises.

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Key Takeaways

  • Start with a Stronger Foundation: A Crawford engine replaces weaker factory parts with high-strength forged internals. Each motor is hand-built and dyno-tested, using decades of racing experience to create a reliable base for serious power.
  • Build a Complete, Balanced System: Maximum performance requires more than just a strong engine. Supporting parts like the patented Air/Oil Separator (AOS) and professional tuning are essential to make all components work together safely and efficiently.
  • Get Unmatched Support and Flexibility: Crawford stands behind their work with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty. You also get to keep your original engine and have access to expert guidance, making the entire upgrade process smoother and more secure.

What Goes Into a Race-Proven Crawford Engine?

When you hear about a "Crawford Engine," you're hearing about more than just a motor. You're hearing about a legacy of performance built on decades of real-world racing, meticulous engineering, and a commitment to pushing Subaru platforms to their limits. Every engine we build is a direct reflection of our philosophy: create power that is both immense and reliable. From the initial design to the final tune, each component is chosen and assembled with a purpose. It’s this comprehensive approach that transforms a standard Subaru engine into a powerhouse ready for the track, trail, or street.

Backed by Decades of Racing Experience

Every part we develop is born from decades of professional rally and track experience. This isn't just a talking point; it's the foundation of our engineering. We've seen firsthand what works and what fails under the most extreme conditions imaginable. This rigorous, real-world testing allows us to create balanced, reliable performance parts that you can trust. When you install a Crawford engine, you’re getting the direct benefit of countless hours spent on the track, ensuring your motor is prepared to handle whatever you throw at it. Our experience in competition translates directly to the durability and performance you feel on the road.

Dyno-Tested for Real-World Power

We believe in transparency and proven results, which is why every performance product we manufacture is validated through extensive dyno testing. This process ensures our horsepower and torque claims are accurate and reflect real-world performance, not just optimistic numbers on a spreadsheet. By verifying each component on the dynamometer, we guarantee that our parts work together harmoniously to deliver consistent, reliable power. Our professional engine tuning services further refine this process, dialing in every parameter to maximize output safely. You can be confident that the power you’re promised is the power you’ll get.

Hand-Built Precision with Forged Internals

At the heart of a Crawford engine is a robust core built to handle immense stress. A built motor replaces weaker factory internals with high-strength, forged components like pistons and connecting rods. This creates a foundation that can safely manage significantly increased power levels without compromise. Each engine is hand-built by our expert technicians, who bring a level of precision and attention to detail that mass production simply cannot match. This meticulous assembly process ensures every clearance is perfect and every component is seated correctly, resulting in a durable engine built for longevity and peak performance.

The Advantage of Our Patented Air/Oil Separator

Subaru Boxer engines are fantastic, but they have unique oiling system challenges, especially when modified. That’s why we pioneered the Air/Oil Separator (AOS), a critical component that has become a staple for Subaru performance. Our patented AOS technology effectively separates oil vapor from the crankcase ventilation system, preventing oil from entering your intake tract. This helps reduce the risk of detonation, keeps your intake components clean, and ensures your engine is lubricated with a consistent supply of oil. It’s a key piece of our engine-building philosophy and a vital part of what makes our Subaru builds so reliable.

Find Your Subaru: Engine Compatibility and Specs

Finding the right engine for your build starts with knowing what your Subaru is capable of. Whether you're aiming for the podium on race day or building a reliable overlanding rig, we have an engine solution designed for your specific model. We engineer our motors to match the unique characteristics of each Subaru platform, from the raw power of the STI to the versatile nature of the Forester. Let's break down what our race-proven engines can do for your car, so you can choose the perfect foundation for your performance goals. Each build is a testament to our commitment to power, precision, and reliability, ensuring you get an engine that not only performs but lasts.

WRX & STI: Built to Handle 770+ Horsepower

The WRX and STI are legendary for a reason, and our engines are built to honor that legacy. We offer hand-built, precision-machined short blocks designed specifically for Subaru WRX and STI models. For the iconic EJ257 STI engines produced from 2004 to 2021, our builds are engineered to handle staggering power levels, supporting up to 770 horsepower. This means you can push your car to its absolute limits on the track, all while maintaining the reliability and engine health that Crawford Performance is known for. It’s the ultimate foundation for anyone serious about extracting maximum performance from their Subaru.

BRZ, FR-S & GT86: FA20 Short Blocks for 660+ Horsepower

If you drive a BRZ, FR-S, or GT86, you know it's all about balance and driver engagement. When you're ready to add serious power to that equation, our FA20 short blocks are the answer. These precision-engineered Subaru short blocks are built to handle up to 660 horsepower, transforming your car into a true powerhouse. We designed these components to maximize performance without sacrificing durability, making them the perfect choice for serious racers and performance drivers who demand the best. It’s the kind of reliable power that gives you confidence lap after lap, knowing your engine can take the heat.

Performance Builds for Crosstrek, Impreza & Forester

Performance isn't just for the track stars. We believe every Subaru enthusiast deserves a race-proven experience. That's why we specialize in performance upgrades for a wide range of models, including the versatile Subaru Crosstrek, the dependable Subaru Impreza, and the capable Subaru Forester. Our precision-engineered upgrades are tailored to enhance both the performance and reliability of these vehicles. Whether you're building an overlanding solution or just want more power for your daily driver, we provide the parts to make it happen, ensuring you get the most out of your Subaru no matter where you take it.

What Performance Gains Can You Expect?

When you invest in a performance engine, you're looking for more than just a number on a dyno sheet. You want power you can feel and, more importantly, power you can trust. A Crawford-built engine delivers exactly that: a balanced, reliable, and significant increase in performance tailored to your driving style. Whether your goal is to dominate on the track, build a capable overlanding rig, or simply create the ultimate daily driver, the gains you see are a direct result of meticulous engineering and race-proven components.

We design our engines to deliver usable power across the entire rev range, not just at the peak. This means quicker acceleration, more responsive throttle, and a car that feels alive. The true gain is in the confidence you have behind the wheel, knowing your engine was built to handle the demands you place on it. By combining our hand-built short blocks with our suite of supporting performance parts, we create a synergistic system where every component works together to produce efficient, reliable power. The result is a transformative driving experience that goes far beyond raw horsepower figures.

Horsepower and Torque Gains by Model

The potential of a Crawford engine is best illustrated by its power-handling capabilities. Our hand-built Subaru short blocks are precision-machined to handle immense stress while maintaining engine health. For example, our builds for the EJ257 STI (2004–2021) are engineered to support up to 770 horsepower, while our FA20 short blocks for the BRZ, FR-S, and GT86 can handle over 660 horsepower. These figures demonstrate the strength and durability we build into every engine, giving you the foundation for a truly powerful and reliable vehicle.

Track-Ready Power, Street-Proven Reliability

Every part we create is born from decades of professional rally and track experience. This means our components aren't just designed for performance; they're built to survive it. We test our engines and parts under the most extreme conditions, guaranteeing reliable and balanced performance that you can count on, lap after lap or mile after mile. This commitment to durability ensures that whether you're pushing your Subaru STI on the track or navigating a remote trail in your Crosstrek, your engine delivers consistent power without compromising its longevity.

Why Professional Tuning Is Key to Performance

Installing high-performance parts is only half the battle. To truly get the most from your upgrades, a professional tune is essential. Think of it as teaching all your new components how to work together efficiently and safely. A proper tune optimizes your engine's parameters, ensuring you get the maximum power from your build while protecting your investment from potential damage. Our expert engine tuning services are the final step in completing your build, dialing in your vehicle to deliver peak performance and long-term reliability.

Customize Your Engine for Your Goals

The most effective Subaru upgrades start with a clear goal. Are you building a dedicated track car, a rugged trail rig, or a dependable daily driver with more punch? Whatever your vision, selecting parts designed for your specific purpose is the key to building a motor that not only performs but also lasts. A build meant for sustained high RPMs on the track requires a different approach than one designed for the low-speed, high-torque demands of a technical trail. At Crawford Performance, we help you align your build with your ambitions by providing a clear path to achieving your performance targets. By understanding what you want to accomplish, we can guide you toward the right combination of performance parts that work in harmony to create a balanced, reliable, and powerful engine.

Short Block Options for Every Performance Level

The foundation of any serious engine build is the short block, and we offer a range of hand-built, precision-machined Subaru short blocks designed for increased power and reliability. Whether you're aiming for a modest power increase or building an absolute monster, we have a solution that fits. Our power handling options are dyno-proven, with short blocks capable of supporting up to 770 horsepower for EJ257 STI engines (2004–2021) and 660 horsepower for the FA20 engine found in the BRZ, FR-S, and GT86. Each one is built to provide a rock-solid core for your performance goals.

Forged Internals for Durability and Power

When you hear the term "built motor," it means the engine’s factory internals have been swapped for stronger, forged components. This is one of the most critical steps in building an engine that can safely handle a significant increase in power. The factory cast pistons and connecting rods are often the first points of failure when you add more power. A Subaru built motor from Crawford uses high-quality forged internals to create an incredibly durable core, giving you the confidence to push your car to its limits without worrying about catastrophic failure.

From Daily Driver to Full Track Build

A built motor is an incredibly versatile upgrade. It provides a robust platform that can be tailored to your exact needs, whether that’s enduring sustained high RPMs on the track or navigating the demanding conditions of an off-road adventure. But these engines aren't just for competition. Many of our customers choose a built motor to create a stronger, more reliable daily driver that’s more resilient than the factory setup. This upgrade provides peace of mind and a solid foundation for any future modifications, making it a smart investment for any Subaru enthusiast looking for long-term performance and durability in their overlanding solutions.

Integrated Parts for Optimal Performance

A powerful engine is more than just a strong short block; it’s a complete system of integrated parts working together. That’s why we offer a full line of precision-engineered upgrades for Subaru WRX, STI, Forester, Crosstrek, and BRZ models. Our product ecosystem includes everything from installation kits and turbo kits to intercoolers and exhaust systems. One of the most crucial components for any Boxer engine is our original Air/Oil Separator (AOS), which prevents oil from contaminating your intake and lowering your fuel's octane. This ensures your engine runs reliably and makes consistent power.

Our Unmatched Warranty and Expert Support

At Crawford Performance, we believe a world-class engine deserves world-class support. We don’t just build and ship; we stand behind every motor that leaves our shop. This commitment is about more than just parts, it’s about giving you the confidence to push your Subaru to its limits, knowing we have your back. Our warranty and expert guidance are designed to provide complete peace of mind, so you can focus on the road ahead.

12-Month/12,000-Mile Engine Warranty

We offer a comprehensive 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on all our custom-built engines. This isn't just a piece of paper; it's our promise to you. It reflects our deep confidence in the quality, engineering, and durability of every motor we assemble. Whether you're on your daily commute or hitting the track for a weekend session, you can drive with the assurance that your investment is protected. This warranty covers our craftsmanship and materials, ensuring your high-performance Subaru short block is built to last and perform reliably from day one.

1-Year Unlimited Mileage Guarantee on Select Builds

For some of our most robust engine builds, we take our promise a step further with a 1-year unlimited mileage guarantee. This is for the drivers who live behind the wheel, whether they're competing in a race series or embarking on an epic overlanding adventure. With this guarantee, you can put as many miles on your engine as you want without worrying about the warranty expiring. It’s our way of showing ultimate confidence in our top-tier builds and giving you the freedom to truly enjoy your vehicle without any restrictions holding you back.

Keep Your Original Engine: No Core Return Needed

When you upgrade to a Crawford Performance engine, you get to keep your original motor. Unlike many engine programs that require a core return, we believe your old engine is yours to keep. This offers you incredible flexibility. You can hold onto it as a spare, sell it to offset the cost of your upgrade, or use it for another project down the line. This policy simplifies the upgrade process, eliminating the hassle and expense of shipping a heavy engine block back to us. It’s just one more way we make the path to higher performance smoother for you.

Expert Guidance from Start to Finish

Our support extends far beyond the engine itself. When you choose Crawford Performance, you gain a partner in your performance journey. Our team of experienced Subaru specialists is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way. Have questions about which build is right for your goals? Need advice during installation? Looking for the perfect tune to match your new setup? We're here to help. Our engine tuning services and knowledgeable staff ensure you get the most out of your build, from the moment you order to your first drive and beyond.

Build Your Subaru the Right Way with Crawford Performance

When you decide to upgrade your Subaru, you're not just adding parts; you're shaping its identity. The most effective builds start with a clear goal. Are you aiming for faster lap times on the track, conquering rugged trails, or preparing for a long-distance overlanding adventure? Answering this question first is the key to selecting components that work together seamlessly. Choosing the right parts is the difference between a car that just has upgrades and one that is truly upgraded.

This is where our experience makes all the difference. At Crawford Performance, we bring decades of professional rally and track expertise to every component we design. We don't just sell parts; we engineer balanced, reliable performance parts that create a complete system. We rigorously test each product, from our patented Air/Oil Separators to our built short blocks, in the same extreme conditions you'll face on the track or trail. This ensures your vehicle performs exactly as expected when you need it most.

A successful build relies on more than just good parts; it requires expert assembly and engine tuning services to get the most out of your new hardware. We validate the horsepower claims of every performance product on our dyno, so you know you're getting real-world power gains. By investing in Crawford Performance, you're choosing a legacy of race-proven engineering. You're building your Subaru the right way, with components designed for durability, power, and the confidence to push your car to its limits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a "built motor" and do I really need one? A built motor is an engine where the standard internal parts, like pistons and connecting rods, are replaced with much stronger, forged components. Think of it as reinforcing the engine's foundation. You need one if you plan to significantly increase your car's horsepower, as the factory parts aren't designed to handle that extra stress. It's the safest way to make more power, whether you're building a track car or just a more durable and powerful daily driver.

Why is your Air/Oil Separator (AOS) so important for my Subaru? Subaru's Boxer engines have a design that can allow oil to mix with air in the crankcase and get into your intake system. This is bad for performance and engine health, as it can lower your fuel's octane and lead to detonation. Our patented AOS is a crucial fix for this. It separates the oil from the air, ensuring your engine gets clean air and consistent lubrication. It's a vital part for maintaining reliable power and protecting your engine long term.

With different power levels available, how do I choose the right engine for my car? The best engine for you depends entirely on your goals. Before looking at horsepower numbers, ask yourself what you want to do with your car. Are you building a dedicated track machine, a capable overlanding rig, or a fun daily driver? Each goal requires a different balance of parts. Once you know your objective, you can choose a short block and supporting components that match your ambition. Our team is also here to help you map out the perfect build for your specific needs.

What makes your 12-month/12,000-mile warranty different from others? Our warranty is our promise that we stand behind our work. We build these engines to be used, not just to look good on a spec sheet. This warranty gives you the confidence to actually drive your car on the street or the track, knowing your investment is protected by our commitment to quality craftsmanship. It’s a guarantee that your engine is built to perform reliably from day one.

After I buy a Crawford engine, what's the next step for installation and tuning? Once you have your new engine, the next steps are professional installation and a proper tune. A tune is essential because it calibrates the car's computer to work with all the new high-performance parts, ensuring everything functions together safely and efficiently. This final step is what unlocks the engine's full potential and ensures its longevity. Our team can provide expert tuning services and guidance to make sure your build is completed the right way.

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