ThosL Posted August 18, 2016 Share Posted August 18, 2016 I junked my 99 Subaru Outback and saved the hitch for the 97 Outback from Uhaul, but it doesn't look like they are compatible, though Uhaul said they were. It doesn't look like the bolt pattern lines up. My date of manufacture is 2/97. Anyone have the changeover dates? Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Numbchux Posted August 18, 2016 Share Posted August 18, 2016 The Subaru hitch fits Model Year '96-'99 Legacy Outback models, I grabbed an aftermarket (Reese, maybe?) one from a '98 in a junkyard a few years ago, and it bolted right up to a '96. Unless your '97 is an Outback Sport, it should work. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThosL Posted August 18, 2016 Author Share Posted August 18, 2016 Mine is a limited and a mechanic looked at the 99 unit and it doesn't look compatible to the 97 Outback. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AdventureSubaru Posted August 19, 2016 Share Posted August 19, 2016 If it came off a 99 it will fit a 97. Usually have to drop the muffler and evap canister to install. But it will fit. I put a 95-99 style one on my 2000 outback. 3 of the 4 holes lined up. I welded an extra plate on for the 4th. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThosL Posted August 19, 2016 Author Share Posted August 19, 2016 It looks like bolt holes will need to be drilled; I thought that the frame with plugs in it could just be punched through and that the trailer hitch frame would line up the Uhaul unit with the Subaru. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AdventureSubaru Posted August 19, 2016 Share Posted August 19, 2016 Depending on the hitch style - yes. you need to drill to mount them. Did this for my wife's 2011. Not a bad job. This also means you have a beefier class 2 or 3 hitch instead of those little bumper mounting types. Well worth a little extra effort to have a solid hitch with more capability. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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